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It was previously understood that the Qatari bidders were determined not to pay over the odds for the club, but that stance has softened in recent days coinciding with a delegation's visit to Old Trafford.
A Qatari delegation travelled to Manchester from London by train and received a warm welcome. Talks were held across 10 hours - a lot longer than expected.
Sheikh Jassim and members of his team had been to Old Trafford as fans before, and the focus of this visit was to get a perspective on what they could do with their capital investment regarding infrastructure, youth development and the women's team.
They had been trying to get a better understanding before they make another bid. It was too early for Sheikh Jassim to be there in person and he did not just want to go for a photo opportunity.
He sent his top team of experts in finance, banking, property and law with the Qataris totally committed and in this to buy the club.