WWE supremo Vince McMahon 'targeting Newcastle United takeover bid' with Mike Ashley ready to cash in
McMahon was reportedly interested in purchasing the Magpies back in 2011 although the club moved quickly to quash the rumours
Newcastle United could be set for a new high-profile owner - WWE boss Vince McMahon.
In 2011, there were reports that the 68-year-old came close to purchasing the Magpies, although the club later dismissed the claims.
However, according to website Winner Sports, McMahon is ready to make a substantial takeover bid, with owner Mike Ashley keen to sell up.
The American billionaire wants to increase the influence of the WWE brand across the UK and he reportedly sees Newcastle as an ideal opportunity to do so.
Winner Sports even claim McMahon would be interested in putting on wrestling bouts at St. James' Park.
Over the weekend, there were reports that Toon boss Alan Pardew was on the brink, following a dismal run of results.
The 52-year-old is thought to have lost the backing of his players, with his position weakened even further by Ashley's willingness to sell.
He handed Pardew an eight-year contract in September 2012 but the Sports Direct boss hasn't watched a match at St. James' for almost six months and is now looking for a new challenge.
Whether McMahon is the man to replace him remains to be seen but there have been some brilliant reactions on Twitter to the news.
Here are a few of our favourites:
