Rangers manager Walter Smith has called for a quick resolution to the club's latest takeover bid.
Scottish tycoon Craig Whyte confirmed he is considering making an offer to buy Rangers after opening talks with Murray International Holdings. The 39-year-old businessman has joined forces with London-based property developer Andrew Ellis, who was previously involved in a proposed buy-out which fell through earlier this year.
Although a formal offer for Rangers has yet to be made, a deal could be concluded by Christmas and Smith is keen to avoid a protracted saga, and said: "It's not just the footballing side, from everyone's point of view, if there is going to be a resolution, then it should be handled as quickly as it possibly can."
He added: "Unfortunately, I don't think these things can be done that quickly but I would hope it would go one way or another as quickly as possible.
"We've had had this two or three times before and we just have to wait and see what the outcome of this one is.
"For us in football, it's a matter of us carrying on and doing what we are doing."
It is understood the new owner would wipe out the club's £27million debt, as well as invest around £25million in the playing squad over the course of five years.
When it was put to Smith that a Christmas takeover could also result in funds for him to strengthen in January, he said: "Never mind the transfer window or anything like that, when there is an element of doubt about the club and future owners, I don't think that's a great thing for the club.
"It's not a great situation for the club to be in. If someone does come along and takes over the club, that's fine.
"As long they've got Rangers' interests at heart, that's exactly what we would want. It's just that, if it happens too often, it becomes an awkward circumstance."
Source: PA
