FREDDY Shepherd, Newcastle United's former chairman, is reported to be heading a consortium set to launch a £60m takeover bid of the Magpies.

According to the BBC, Alan Shearer has been lined up to carry on as manager at the Championship club.

Owner Mike Ashley was asking for £100m, however, it is thought that Shepherd will succeed with his offer.

He sold his Newcastle shares to Ashley two years ago as part of a £134m deal for the club.

More later