Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has claimed a deal to buy a substantial stake in Liverpool could be finalised later this week.
The Anfield club yesterday refused to comment on reports suggesting the millionaire businessman could buy between 9 and 30 per cent of the club.
Manager Gerard Houllier could have to up to £30 million for new players in the summer should the deal go through.
The politician (54) claims he will meet Liverpool representatives today. "If the board are happy with the result of talks then we can make a joint announcement later this week, maybe Friday," said Mr Shinawatra, who made his name and fortune in the family telecom group Shin Corp.
Part of any deal could see Liverpool setting up an academy in Thailand and help with the country's professional league.
Liverpool recently turned down a proposal from property tycoon Steve Morgan to raise his stake in the club through a rights issue. Morgan has a five per cent stake in Liverpool behind Granada (9.9 per cent) and chairman David Moores (51 per cent).
PA