NEWCASTLE UNITED managing director Derek Llambias has denied Alan Curbishley is being lined up to take the helm at St James’ Park.

Alan Shearer has failed to agree terms with Mike Ashley as the owner attempts to sell the club, leading to Curbishley’s name being linked with the managerial vacancy.

Ashley is thought to believe he may get a better deal for the club if he has a manager in place and Curbishley is interested in the post.

But Llambias denied there has been any contact with the former West Ham United and Charlton Athletic boss who has a wealth of Championship experience after twice taking the Addicks into the Premier League.

However, with no manager in place and the Newcastle squad scheduled to return for pre season training on July 1, contingency plans are being made.

Ashley is poised to ask assistant manager Chris Hughton to lead the team on a temporary basis. Hughton lost all four games during his tenure as Newcastle caretaker manager last season but he has two years left on his current contract.

There are claims a deal with an unnamed American group is close to being agreed with a formal announcement expected in the next couple of days. The club have requested all bidders show they have funds in place to progress a potential deal by close of business tomorrow.

Meanwhile, West Ham are ready to launch a £4m bid for defender Steven Taylor.