Shearer has had to suffer in silence as he waits for updates on the takeover talks and his frustration has increased with each passing day.

United’s first-team squad return for the start of pre-season

training next Wednesday and Shearer is itching to be able to take charge of the first session as he looks to get started on the urgent repair work which needs to be done following relegation.

Like every United fan, Shearer has been alarmed to read reports linking Taylor and Beye with a move. Taylor is wanted by West Ham, while Beye is a target for both Stoke and bitter local rivals Sunderland.

The prospect of losing two of the only players to emerge from last season’s dreadful campaign with any credit would have been another painful kick in the teeth for Newcastle’s long-suffering supporters. But Shearer appears to be confident both will stay as long as he is put in charge as quick as possible.

“Alan has talked to Steven and Habib and they have said they will stay at Newcastle if he is manager,” said the source. “However, as has always been the case, the sooner things are resolved the better because Newcastle have already lost ground on their Championship rivals in the transfer market.”

The Journal also understands United are close to selling their first player of the summer, with midfielder Kevin Nolan expected to sign for Hull City six months after a £4.5m move from Bolton.