Dundee United chairman Stephen Thompson is close to securing major investment in the club but has yet to receive any offer to buy him out.
Speaking exclusively to Courier Sport in his first major interview since relegation became a reality for the Tangerines, Thompson has opened his heart on his own situation and that of United as they prepare for life in the Championship.
He revealed that not one but two parties – both from abroad – have expressed a genuine interest in putting money into United.
Talks are moving along well in that regard but the Tannadice chairman stressed that it has been all quiet when it comes to the possibility of an actual takeover.
Thompson declared in the final days of last season that he would be willing to listen to offers for his 53% controlling stake in United.
Rumours and speculation have come and gone in the weeks and months since but as yet there have been no takers.
“I keep hearing that there are people out there somewhere but none of them have approached me,” said Thompson.
“There has been no formal approach, whatsoever, to acquire any shareholding in the club.
“I say, as clearly as I can, that there has been nobody who has come to me to say they want to buy Dundee United.
“I repeat, nobody.
“I have heard all the rumours because I live in Dundee.
“Some tell me: ‘There are people out there.’
“What I say to them is that if there are people out there then, fine, tell them to come along and see me.
“So, just to be absolutely clear, there has been no formal approach to me from anybody to buy the club.”
Thompson then disclosed that while the ownership may not be about to change anytime soon there is a good chance that there is serious investment in the pipeline.
“I can’t say too much because of confidentiality agreements but I can reveal that I am talking to two parties from abroad and have been doing so for a while,” added the chairman.
“I won’t say how this all came about but I will say that it will be for the long-term benefit of United if it comes off.
“It would help this club to move forward with confidence.
“These things take time, though.
“They don’t just happen in a couple of weeks.
“This is about investment in the business and I want what’s best for this club.
“The last 18 months have been horrendous for everyone connected with United but we are where we are.
“This is about United moving forward and supporting our new manager Ray McKinnon.
“Who knows where things will lead to in the future?
“If, as is hoped, the new investment comes in then that will be fantastic.”
