Rafael Benitez has insisted that the "potential is massive" at Newcastle United amid ongoing takeover talks, but is unwilling to let his players get distracted by the speculation.
Several parties are understood to have shown an interest in taking up owner Mike Ashley's offer of purchasing the club, including a firm run by British entrepreneur Amanda Staveley.
Reports on Thursday even went as far as suggesting that Staveley's PCP Capital Partners group had signed a confidentiality agreement and was in the process of carrying out due diligence checks.
Benitez says that all his current focus is on preparing for Saturday's visit of Crystal Palace, however, as Newcastle aim to build on what has been a solid start to life back in the Premier League.
"I spoke to [managing director] Lee Charnley and he told me he had no news on that. I don't know what will happen in the next three months," he told reporters.
"I am the manager, I concentrate on the football and ensure my players concentrate on what happens in the game against Crystal Palace. The fans will be excited, of course, but that will not have influence on how I behave.
"We have a good team with young players and they are improving. I am positive in terms of what we can achieve. The fans, the club, the potential is massive. If we do well on the pitch, everything is easier."
Ashley's lawyer Andrew Henderson revealed that the club hope to have a sale completed before Christmas, with a Turkish businessman also thought to be in the running.
Daniel Lewis
