Simon Clifford has confirmed to Sky Sports News that Kevin Keegan will return to the club if the South African consortium he is involved with takes control at St James' Park.
BUT ... Clifford is allegedly involved in the deal with Jonathan Cleland, who is the Scottish-based businessman heading up the South African bid.
And Cleland confirmed on Friday he was heading up the South African-led consortium, although the backers remain a mystery after leading businessmen Johann Rupert, Brian Joffe and Vivian Imerman all denied involvement.
Speaking to Sky Sports News, Clifford confirmed talks with Keegan had gone well.
Keegan In Talks - But African 'Mystery' Continues!
"Our number one priority is to return Kevin to the club and we had a very good meeting on Monday.
"I know there are other consortiums looking at the club as it is a terribly attractive proposition and I am under no illusion that Kevin may speak to them also but we did have a mutual interest in working together."