ALAN SHEARER will be given an update on the sale of Newcastle United when he meets the club’s hierarchy in London tomorrow. And with Mike Ashley close to agreeing terms with one of the interested bidders, Shearer’s long wait to take charge of team affairs could be drawing to a close.

Lack of progress regarding a change of ownership has tested the patience of the Magpies manager-in-waiting who nevertheless has remained eager to take charge of his hometown club.

He has now been informed that Ashley is hoping to make an announcement within the next 48 hours that could open the way for Shearer to be appointed as manager.

While the prospect of him being in charge when the players resume training on Wednesday remain unlikely, he has already contacted some of the current squad in a bid to retain a core of players he believes can launch a promotion assault.

Shearer has earmarked the likes of Steven Taylor and Habib Beye as the type of characters he wants in the Newcastle side nest season and despite interest from topflight clubs has requested they stay at St James’ Park.

And despite Peter Lovenkrands now being out of contract, the 29-year-old is keen to re-join Shearer and play a part in Newcastle’s Championship campaign.

The versatile Danish winger joined the Magpies from German side Shalke 04 on a short-term deal, and the contract has now expired.

His representative, Ivan Marko Benes, confirmed Lovenkrands is keen to play in England next season: He said: “Is it out of the question that he stays at Newcastle?

I don’t think so. But we will find a club for him and that’s what we are working on now. What does he wish for in his future career?

He wants to stay in the UK.”