Fans of Liverpool spoke of their surprise today over reports of an imminent takeover bid for the club. Liverpool directors could meet tomorrow to debate potential takeover bids, according to reports on Merseyside.

Multi-millionaire businessman Steve Morgan, who has been linked with a takeover of the club before, was reported to be one of the bidders.

The club has previously been linked with major investment or a takeover, with ousted Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and American Robert Kraft among the names suggested.

David Moores, a member of the family which founded the Littlewoods shopping empire, is currently the majority shareholder at the club.

Les Lawson, secretary of the official Liverpool Supporters Club, said the latest development had come as a shock.

He said: "This has come completely out of the blue. The situation has been going on for nearly three years and it is about time a line was drawn under it. Either David Moores says he is not prepared to sell his shares or they accept a takeover bid.

"But it has to be the right person - it should not just be about money. We believe this is a special club and we would prefer a Liverpool supporter, someone who has a feeling for the club. But it has got to come to a head soon."

The takeover speculation comes as Liverpool prepares to reveal details of how it will fund a new £180 million, 60,000-seater stadium.