Liverpool could Thai up deal this week: Report

Thailand prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has claimed a deal to buy a substantial stake in Liverpool could be finalised later this week.

The Anfield club yesterday refused to comment on reports suggesting the millionaire businessman could buy between nine and 30% of Liverpool.

Any deal could see manager Gerard Houllier have access to up to £30m (€45m) for new players in the summer.

The 54-year-old politician claims he will meet Liverpool representatives today.

“If the board are happy with the result of talks then we can make a joint announcement later this week, maybe Friday,” said the prime minister.

He added: “It is a good business prospect since the team is in the top five of the English Premiership.”

Part of any deal could see Liverpool setting up an academy in Thailand and help with the country’s professional league.

Liverpool recently turned down a proposal from property tycoon Steve Morgan to raise his stake in the club through a rights issue.

Morgan has a five percent stake in Liverpool behind Granada (9.9%) and chairman David Moores (51%).

Shinawatra made his name and fortune in the family telecom group Shin Corp.