STRUGGLING businessman Nathan Tinkler wants to sell the Newcastle Jets soccer team to save his ownership of the Knights.
The financial whirlwind that has shaken the former mining billionaire could lead to foreign ownership of the soccer club and only a 50 per cent share of the NRL club for Tinkler.
The Jets licence is said to be worth about $5 million. That cash would be poured back into the Newcastle Knights and almost ensure Tinkler can retain a 50-50 shareholding.
The Jets valuation comes after the Melbourne Heart were sold to the Abu Dhabi royal family, the owners of Manchester City, for $11 million.
The Western Sydney Wanderers are about to be sold for $10 million to a local consortium that includes Asian interests.
Im told Tinklers agents have been in Asia for some time actively trying to find a buyer for the club.
Hes also being advised by John Singleton in Australia.
The A-Leagues connections to Asia via the Asian Champions League and 2015 Asian Cup are sparking interest. The Hunters coal export links to Asia are another key element.
But if Tinkler does end up relinquishing control there will be a strong push to convert the Jets into a member-owned club.
FFA boss David Gallop is watching closely. At this stage players and staff are being paid on time, unlike the Knights players. There are mixed views about Tinklers ownership future with the Knights.
The club knows there is a better chance of keeping super coach Wayne Bennett if Tinkler remains.
He becomes a free agent and can head back to Brisbane if Tinkler is forced out.