An American investor placed a deposit down for a potential takeover of Newcastle United - only for Mike Ashley to 'change his mind'.
Digital media entrepreneur John Textor reportedly considered moves for Brentford, Watford and the Magpies, and is now understood to be casting his eye over a deal for Crystal Palace.
The Eagles' current American co-owners Josh Harris and David Blitzer are said to be open to selling the shares they acquired in 2015, with Textor considering investments in both the Premier League club and Portuguese giants Benfica.
The Athletic claimed on Sunday that the arrests of Benfica's president and biggest shareholder as part of an alleged fraud investigation have cast doubt over Textor's plans to partner the two clubs.
For Newcastle fans, the report also intriguingly details how the 57-year-old's interest in a Tyneside takeover progressed to the stage where a deposit was placed into an escrow account earlier this year.
However, the prospective deal went no further with Ashley deciding against proceeding with Textor's interest.
The frustrated Toon owner has launched separate legal proceedings against the Premier League in a bid to force through the takeover with the Saudi-led consortium.
The anti-competition claim and arbitration proceedings due to be heard this month reflect the Frasers Group magnate's determination to revive the deal previously agreed with the group fronted by Amanda Staveley.
You can read Matt Slater's full report with the Athletic here.
