Newcastle United's takeover hopes have been hit by a hammer blow after their arbitration case was pushed back until early 2022.
Both the Magpies and the Premier League agreed to the decision after the initial hope for a resolution this month was delayed due to 'issues with disclosure of evidence'.
A short United statement read: "The parties attended a hearing today in the case between Newcastle United and the Premier League.
"The main hearing of the arbitration has regrettably now been adjourned until early 2022 due to issues with the disclosure of evidence.
"The parties will be making no further comment at this time."
The news is the worst possible bulletin that the bidders could have expected.
Ashley had told Amanda Staveley, the Reuben brothers and Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund to be ready for this season.
But the development means the Toon owner must oversee the summer transfer window.
Ashley was believed to be in London today to discover the grim update from court.
