Hearts have revealed Vladimir Romanov has increased his stake in the Tynecastle club to just over 80%, which will enable the Lithuanian to fulfil his desire to de-list the club from the Stock Exchange.

Hearts chairman Roman Romanov insists the club will not be selling any players when the transfer window opens.

Hearts chairman George Foulkes has urged shareholders to accept Vladimir Romanov’s offer for the club’s shares.

Liverpool are about to find a Beatles fan and the Lithuanian version of Roman Abramovich blocking their path on the road to the Champions League group stages.