The Magpies will take on Shamrock Rovers in Dublin tomorrow with caretaker Chris Hughton once again at the helm and little more certainty behind the scenes.

Several interested parties remain in negotiations with investment bankers Seymour Pierce with one of them, the Singapore-based Profitable Group, having confirmed in south-east Asia that they have tabled a bid.

However, it is understood that the Malaysian consortium which has twice visited the club and an American group remain the main contenders to buy out owner Mike Ashley.

Austrian on-line gaming company bwin have also been linked with the Magpies in the last two days, while former chairman Freddy Shepherd has maintained more than a passing interest during the weeks since Ashley put the club up for sale for the second time.

Managing director Derek Llambias has confirmed that "more than two" bids of £100million have been received, although the identities of the potential purchasers who have made the offers remain secret with all having signed non-disclosure agreements.

However, former England midfielder Steve McMahon, the Profitable Group's commercial director, insists their bid is under serious consideration.

Club officials remain hopeful that an agreement can be reached soon with Hughton having indicated he does not expect to still be in charge of team affairs when the Coca-Cola Championship season kicks off on August 8.