Obviously the news has sparked fresh suggestions that Shepherd could lose out and be bought out as the club could change hands.
A statement was released to the Stock Exchange by Newcastle PLC this morning following speculation over the weekend that American hedge fund Polygon has been working with investment bank UBS for several months on a buy-out proposal.
The statement said: "The board of Newcastle United PLC notes recent press speculation and confirms that it has today been informed by Sir John Hall representing Wynyard (Guernsey) Limited, which owns approximately 28.8% of Newcastle United PLC, that it has received expressions of interest to acquire its shareholding, which may or may not lead to the disposal of its stake.
"A further announcement will be made if appropriate."
Hall's son Douglas, currently deputy chairman at St James', is linked to a further 13% stake, while Shepherd Offshore recently upped its holding to 27.29%.
It is not the first time the man who took control of the club in 1991 after an acrimonious battle has been offered the opportunity to sell up. Reports last summer suggested a Malaysian group and another British-based investor were ready to fight it out for his stake.
Metrocentre developer Hall succeeded Gordon McKeag at the helm of the struggling club and transformed it beyond recognition. He is still regarded as the man who took us to new heights, meanwhile many fans still see Shepherd as a joke figure who has taken millions out of the club. He and Douglas Hall are in the top FIVE directors who earn the highest wages from a British club, which shows how much they DO take out.