Newcastle United are locked in a bonus row with their players – thanks to a scheme agreed by Mike Ashley.
Mail Sport understands that Toon bosses are yet to reach an agreement with their squad ahead of the looming new season having asked them to take a cut of around 40 per cent on additional incentives set by the ex-owner.
They have acted after bonuses soared last season following the 2021 Saudi-led takeover and subsequent improvement in on-field performance.
Bosses at St James' Park were forced to shell out 'extraordinary' sums by honouring historic terms that were put in place by Ashley and remain in play - after the reborn club finished fourth.