And as he ponders, farts around and picks his sneck ... Moat now has a serious new rival as he tries to complete a takeover.
The local businessman has lodged a formal written bid ... but well below owner Mike Ashley’s £100m asking price.
So what the hell is he doing? HAS HE GOT THE MONEY?
A South African bond dealer has now entered the protracted race to be the new owner.
Legal firm Mishcon de Reya is thought to have been negotiating direct with the club on behalf of the un-named bidder, bypassing Seymour Pierce, who Ashley appointed as brokers for the deal.
They are understood to have been through the process of due diligence, but are yet to lodge a formal written offer.