Manchester United are making progress in the transfer market but the protracted takeover process is showing little sign of moving forward quickly.
Neither Sir Jim Ratcliffe nor Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani are any closer to being granted exclusivity and ultimately taking over at United, following months of snail-pace negotiations. Both sides are confident that have what it takes to convince the Glazers they are the best party.
But the lack of clarity regarding a decision is causing frustration among fans and those inside the club, particularly at a time when Premier League rivals are strengthening so aggressively in the market.