Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley is expected to respond to an American bidder for the club this week.

North West-based businessman Geoff Sheard who is fronting the bid for the Star Foundation claims it is in the hands of UK legal firm Halliwells, representing the Americans, and Ashley's lawyers Travers Smith.

Sheard said: "We will push it forward this week and it will be resolved. It's all done as far as we are concerned. It's all down to the solicitors now.

"There has been no contact with ourselves or Derek Llambias or Mike Ashley, just between legal teams.

"We are not aware of any other significant interest from elsewhere."