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And in an angry swipe at Staveley, the sports retail magnate claimed attempts to strike a deal with PCP Capital Partners had been “exhausting, frustrating and a complete waste of time.”
The dramatic development places a huge question mark over manager Rafa Benitez’ long-term future at St James’ Park.
While Benitez had resigned himself to having minimal funds available for signings this month, he had pinned his faith in the takeover proving successful so he could land his top targets in the summer.
It now looks as if Ashley will be staying put, leaving Benitez considering his own position.
The Staveley camp has been left stunned by Ashley’s decision to walk away from talks and by claims they were messing Ashley around.
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“The Magpies have failed to bring in any new additions this month”
They insist PCP submitted a written bid of £250m in November and were considering increasing it.
And, after last month’s face to face talks with Ashley, Staveley was hopeful that an agreement could be thrashed out.
But Ashley was unhappy with the fact the pair had been photographed emerging from a curry house in London and uncomfortable with the fact that much of their business was being played out in the public eye.
According to Ashley, there was little prospect of the pair ever shaking hands on a deal.
A source close to him said last night: “It is only right to let the fans know there is no deal on the table – or even under discussion – with Amanda Staveley and PCP.
“Attempts to reach a deal have proved exhausting, frustrating and a complete waste of time.”
The Newcastle owner announced last autumn that he wanted to sell up before Christmas but that deadline came and went with little progress having been made.
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And before last night’s stunning announcement, it appeared he was ready to wait until the Premier League’s latest TV deal was announced before making a decision.
Now, though the club officially remains on the market, it looks as if Ashley’s turbulent reign will drag on despite both he and fans wanting him to leave.
He has already admitted he can’t finance Benitez’s ambitions and while he will sanction some business in the transfer market before the window shuts, it is more likely to be loans than major signings.
Crystal Palace defender Pape Souare looks poised to arrive on loan, although his arrival won’t lessen relegation fears.