Mike Ashley face serious competition for Sheffield Wednesday as the takeover bid for the crisis-hit club edges nearer a conclusion.

The Owls have been up for sale since being placed into administration last month. Owner Dejphon Chansiri's reign at the Steel City side came to an end after a series of financial issues.

Ashley is understood to be one of 11 parties that have expressed an interest in buying Sheff Wed. The former Newcastle United owner has been out of football since he sold the Magpies to the Saudi-led consortium for £305million back in 2021.

The Sports Direct magnate is understood to be keen to acquire the Hillsborough outfit, continuing his strategy of buying up distressed sporting entities. He recently sold Coventry City's stadium back to the club for around £40million.

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