The Liverpool board is in discussions with potential investors which may lead to the sale of the club. Spanish multi-millionaire Juan Villalonga this week became the latest to be linked with a major investment in the Anfield club.

However, a statement from the Liverpool board to shareholders confirmed negotiations with "a number of parties".

It read: "The board of Liverpool FC has noted the recent press speculation concerning possible third-party investment into the club and can confirm that it is continuing discussions with a number of parties regarding a potential investment of new funds into the club.

"Although the structure of any such investment is uncertain, it may include an offer for the entire share capital of the club. Shareholders will be kept updated as appropriate."

Last year local businessman Steve Morgan made an unsuccessful approach to invest heavily in the club and before Christmas there was talk of investment by American billionaire Robert Kraft.

More recently, Villalonga has made no secret of his desire to join the Spanish influx at Anfield.

The Reds have already acquired a significant Spanish influence on and off the pitch, with manager Rafael Benitez directing the likes of Xabi Alonso, Fernando Morientes and Luis Garcia.

But latest reports suggest the possibility of a major financial stake-holding from Spain too, in the shape of a consortium fronted by businessman Villalonga - former chief executive of Spanish telecommunications giant Telefonica and friend of former Spanish Prime Minister Jose Maria Aznar.

To do so, he will need to formulate a plan of action agreeable to Anfield chairman David Moores.

Earlier this week he said: "I want Liverpool to change from a domestically-focused club into a global force."

Today's announcement to the Stock Exchange is the strongest indication yet that Moores could be ready to relinquish control of the club. PA