How the Anfield stalemate might be resolved

Tom Hicks buys out George Gillett . . .

The solution Hicks has been trumpeting for months and remains adamant will happen, despite his inability to secure funds to take majority control and finance a new stadium and Gillett's steadfast refusal to sell him even 1 per cent after receiving death threats.

George Gillett buys out Tom Hicks . . . .

A non-starter at the time of January's refinancing deal, when Gillett hesitated over the personal guarantees required for the £350 million loan, but is being actively explored since failing to agree a price for his stake with DIC and vowing to prevent Hicks gaining control at Anfield. Meeting the same problems as his rival, in that mystery backers are yet to come forth and Hicks is playing hardball over his 50 per cent.

DIC buys Gillett's 50 per cent stake . . .

Unless one of the Americans backs down this may be the only solution. But DIC has yet to reach agreement on a price with Gillett and a supposed 90-day limit on Hicks's power of veto over his business partner's proposed sale may be subject to legal challenge.

ShareLiverpool project succeeds . . .

A Utopian ideal whereby 100,000 fans commit £5,000 each and the £500 million is used to buy out Hicks and Gillett

Or . . .

Rafael Benitez walks out. Civil war erupts at Anfield and the newly formed AFC Liverpool begin next season in The Vodkat League Division Two with an average gate of 44,000