Manchester United have confirmed US billionaire Mr Malcolm Glazer has finally launched his long-awaited £800 million sterling bid to buy the club.
The club announced to the Stock Exchange this morning they have received "detailed proposals" from the American business tycoon that could eventually lead to a bid.
Chief executive Mr David Gill and the rest of the United board must now analyse Mr Glazer's plans to see if they would be in the best interests of the club.
Mr Glazer, who owns a 28.1 per cent stake in the club, has been rebuffed three times already, most notably before the club's annual general meeting in November.
Having had his demand to inspect United's accounts rejected by Mr Gill, Mr Glazer took revenge by voting three senior directors - legal adviser Mr Maurice Watkins, commercial director Mr Andy Anson and non-executive director Mr Phillip Yea - off the Old Trafford board.
The move cost Mr Glazer the backing of his PR advisors Brunswick and bankers JP Morgan.
However, it now appears the financiers have had a change of heart and are again thought to be major players in Mr Glazer's fresh approach, based at around 300p per share, which was confirmed in an official club statement today.