Malcolm Glazer has passed the 90 per cent threshold needed for complete ownership of Manchester United.
The American tycoon has increased his United shares to 97.3 per cent, following an offer of 300p per share.
The announcement, made by Glazer's Red Football investment vehicle, means he can commence the compulsory purchase of remaining shares.
Reaching 97.3 per cent means Glazer can take the club off the stock market, and United would be a private company.
A statement from Red Football read: "Red owns or has received valid acceptances of the offer in respect of a total of 257,906,287 Manchester United Shares, representing approximately 97.3 per cent of the issued share capital of Manchester United."
Glazer already had control with 75 per cent ownership. Fans had hoped to hold on to a sufficient number of shares so they could put pressure on Glazer, who they believe will saddle United with too much debt.
The remaining shares are now expected to be purchased by Glazer, with an announcement to delist the company expected soon after.
Red Football have extended their 300p-per-share offer to shareholders until June 27th.
PA