Newcastle United chiefs are now under fan pressure to offer further explanation on the latest takeover claim from the Middle East.
So far, the club's initial response has been a "polite no comment" but there was no denial from United when they were asked on claims that Sheikh Khaled bin Zayed Al Nehayan was ready to pay Mike Ashley £350million to buy the Magpies.
However, while there has also been reports that a deal has been concluded, Ashley is yet to brief his representatives or the club's media team on the situation.
The Premier League have also been approached by Chronicle Live for clarification on whether the deal has reached the paperwork stage as claimed by the Sun.
Many fans have approached the latest news with caution after takeover bids by Peter Kenyon and Amanda Staveley collapsed after they went into the due diligence stage with Ashley's company St James' Holdings.
Rafa Benitez is well aware of the reports that circulated over the Bank Holiday weekend and is also seeking guidance from managing director Lee Charnley.
This wouldn't be the first time the club has been linked with a new owner amid tension with their manager in the boardroom.
That was the case in 2008 when Kevin Keegan rowed with Ashley about transfers and the For Sale signs came out for the first time of his tenure.
And when Alan Shearer was waiting for news on his contract extension in 2009, Ashley placed the club back on the market and the legendary striker was left it complete limbo.
Sheikh Khaled was linked with a move for Liverpool in 2018 but the deal fell through.
He is the founder of Bin Zayed Group with their speciality being construction and energy, trading and industry, real estate, technology and financial services.
Sheikh Khaled is also a huge fan of Premier League football.
