A final decision on the takeover at Manchester United is reportedly set to be delivered later this week.
After months and months of speculation and various reports, Qatari Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani and British petrochemicals billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe have been battling it out to secure a full takeover from the Glazer family.
With it still not confirmed who is the preferred bidder in the race, US banking firm the Raine Group have been leading talks of the sale with it thought most recently Ratcliffe's offer of a 69% stake in the club that would see the Glazers remain at Old Trafford in some aspect.
ALSO READ: Manchester United great Teddy Sheringham responds to Man City winning treble
Erik ten Hag is still none the wiser as to how the proposed sale will affect his summer budget plans, with the Reds bidding to bring in multiple new faces to help bolster their playing squad.
With United fans growing impatient, MEN Sport has taken a look at the latest headlines regarding the takeover.
Final decision 'expected' this week
According to reports via the Daily Mail, both lawyer firms dealing on behalf of the takeover bidders are preparing the final paperwork.
Ratcliffe's Ineos outfit had appeared to have edged in front, but Mail Sport have relayed information that those acting on behalf of Sheikh Jassim now feel that they are very much still in the running to take over at United.
A final decision is expected in the coming days as to which bidder is the preferred candidate after months of speculation is finally set to come to an end.
Sheikh Jassim 'confidence growing'
The Daily Mail reports that Sheikh Jassim's team 'feel they are very much in the game' following the submission of his fifth and final bid last week.
It is claimed that the Qatari bid managed to make 'something of a breakthrough' in recent talks, and the team behind his bid now feel confident they could be set to take over at Old Trafford.
Shaiekh Jassim tabled his fifth and final offer last week and set a Friday deadline - after which he will no longer actively engage in negotiations as he believes the Glazers have had ample time to make a decision.
And following his final bid, the Qatari is reported to be confident he has done enough to be named preferred bidder by Raine Group.
Sir Jim team 'making enquiries'
Sir Jim Ratcliffe's trusted ally Sir Dave Brailsford is reportedly 'making enquiries on sporting decisions' ahead of a possible takeover.
That is according to The Athletic, which reports the former chief of British Cycling could well be involved behind the scenes at Old Trafford should the British billionaire's takeover prove successful.
It is claimed that Brailsford's actions are seen as 'a sign of confidence from Ratcliffe' that he will ultimately win the race to become the club's next owner.
READ MORE:
