Newcastle United takeover collapse is double good news for Leeds United

By Mathew Nash

Newcastle United look unlikely to be doing any business in January after takeover talks collapsed. According to The Mirror, four potential buyers are all short of the valuation necessary to take over from Mike Ashley.

The report also claims that, as a result, there are currently no actions in place for the January transfer window. Rafa Benitez may have no funds to improve the Magpies further in the winter.

All of this is good news for Leeds United.

Newcastle United’s English owner Mike Ashley (C) watches during the English Premier League football match between Newcastle United and Bournemouth at St James’ Park in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, north east England on Novmeber 10, 2018. (Photo by Lindsey PARNABY / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or ‘live’ services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo credit should read LINDSEY PARNABY/AFP/Getty Images)

According to the report, it has seen plans to sign Kemar Roofe from Leeds put on the ‘backburner’. Simply put, Newcastle look unlikely to be in a position to afford the Leeds forward in January.

On top of that, it should surely help Leeds secure the signature of Karl Darlow.

Newcastle will need to sell if they are to make any improvements in January. The goalkeeper position is an area where they are blessed, with four top options in Martin Dubravka, Freddie Woodman, Rob Elliot and reported Leeds target, Darlow.

A recent report from The Chronicle suggested that Leeds want Darlow on loan. Newcastle are willing to sell for around £4 million and recent developments should give Leeds a fair chance of getting their man.

Unfortunately for Newcastle, one team’s loss may be to another’s gain. The team in question could be Leeds United.