Malcolm Glazer has passed the 90% threshold needed for complete ownership of Manchester United.
The American tycoon has increased his United shares to take his total to 97.3%, following an offer of 300p per share.
The announcement, made from Glazer's Red Football investment vehicle, means he could commence the compulsory purchase of any remaining shares.
Reaching 97.3% of shares means Glazer can take the club off the Stock Market and United would be a private company.
A statement from Red Football read: "Red owns or has received valid acceptances of the offer in respect of a total of 257,906,287 Manchester United Shares, representing approximately 97.3% of the issued share capital of Manchester United."
Glazer already had control with 75% ownership, although fans had hoped to hold on to a sufficient number of shares so they could put pressure on Glazer, who they believe will saddle United with too much debt.
