THE Burnley board hope to clinch a takeover deal within a matter of days, writes NEIL BRAMWELL.

I understand that a bid has been accepted in principle from the mystery businessman who has a base in Canada and interests in Europe.

But the Turf Moor bankers must confirm that the bidder can match his financial promises.

And that paperwork has yet to be processed.

Until that happens, rival bids cannot be ruled out.

Ray Ingleby is still waiting for an official response from Turf Moor to his £4.9 million bid.

The New York-based tycoon-the front man for a group of investors which includes local businessmen - had agreed to allow the board more time after his initial deadline elapsed last week.

Chairman Frank Teasdale said today: "As far as Mr Ingleby is concerned, he knows exactly what is happening.

"There is no problem with him."

But, providing the mystery bidder can come up with the agreed package, Ingleby looks set to miss out.

And an extraordinary general meeting could be announced as early as this week to reveal details of the successful bid.

Ingleby, however, has been talking to a number of influential shareholders with a view to buying a sizeable stake in the club.

There have also been attempts by the Ingleby camp to link up with the other interested party, the consortium represented by Manchester firm Apax Partners.

Apax still hope to hold a meeting with the board to discuss their own revised offer in more detail, although time is not on their side.

Mr Teasdale was today attending a meeting of Second and Third Division clubs with the Football League in attempt to avert the crisis which threatens to split the Nationwide League.

The meeting is a result of lower league chairmen becoming concerned at the idea that some leading First Division sides want to increase their share of television monies.

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