The duo talked figures at an Indian restaurant more than three weeks after Staveley's PCP Capital Partners opening bid of around £250m was made.

Sky Sports News understands there is still a desire for a deal to be brokered, but the failure to agree thus far means it is looking less likely that a deal will be done in time to make headway in the January transfer window.

Staveley was a spectator at St James' Park for Newcastle's game against Liverpool in October

With the Christmas holidays approaching and any deal needing to be ratified by the Premier League, it is thought any agreement is unlikely to be complete until late January at the earliest.

It is understood Ashley values Newcastle at around £380m. He bought the club 10 years ago for £134m.