Thai gets green light to check City accounts

Former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has moved into pole position to buy Manchester City after he was granted access to the club’s accounts.

Shinawatra’s accountants will complete due diligence at City before advising their client whether to make a formal bid for the club.

Shinawatra has been heavily linked with a near £100million move for the Eastlands outfit over the weekend and contact was finally made last night.

After failing in his efforts to buy Liverpool three years ago, Shinawatra has not been put off getting involved in the Premiership and sees City as an ideal opportunity.

Given the reluctance among senior figures within the Blues hierarchy to negotiate with former player Ray Ranson – who has also made his interest in the club clear – Shinawatra would appear well placed if he decides to pursue the matter.