Manchester United's search for investment is likely to end in a full sale of the Premier League club, according to a new report.
Back in November, United's owners - the Glazer family - announced their intention to "explore strategic alternatives" for the Red Devils "including new investment into the club, a sale, or other transactions".
After assessing the level of interest from potential investors, it has now been revealed that a full sale of the club is the most likely outcome.
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The Daily Mail claim that a total sale is 'more appealing' to those that have so-far registered an interest.
However, the Glazer family are said to remain open to all possible options, including a partial sale of the club that will see them retain overall control.
Several parties have been linked with a potential takeover over United, including boyhood fan Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
There is also believed to be interest from the Middle East and the United States.
What could happen next?
It is understood that the potential sale, which is being overseen US merchant bankers Raine Group, will move to a more formal stage in the next three to four weeks.
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"It can, however, be disclosed that despite an expected price of between £6bn and £8bn, the noises so far point to the likelihood of a full takeover of United, rather than investment in exchange for a stake," added the report.
The news will no doubt be welcomed by the majority of United supporters, who have protested against the Glazers' ownership ever since they completed their controversial takeover in 2005, which saddled the club with debt after a leveraged buyout.
Who could buy Man Utd?
Last week, Britain's richest man Ratcliffe was the first person to publicly declare their interest in buying Manchester United.
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However, his company Ineos is likely to face stiff competition.
The Athletic claim that Qatar have held a 'watching brief' over developments at United.
They add that Qatar 'expects' a consortium from Saudi Arabia to emerge and challenge Radcliffe's anticipated bid, with the British billionaire viewed as a 'credible rival'.
In November, Saudi Arabia's sports minister confirmed that the state's government would support a private sector bid.
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He told BBC Sport: "We will definitely support it if any [Saudi] private sector comes in, because we know that's going to reflect positively on sports within the kingdom.
"But if there's an investor willing to do so and the numbers add up, why not?"
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Manchester United, Football, Premier League