The Independent says DIC, which has hugely ambitious plans for Liverpool and has been trying to acquire the club for two years, is supremely confident that it will finally reach its goal in the next few weeks. It has already agreed a deal with George Gillett, who is prepared to accept less than Tom Hicks to make sure the club's future is secure - even though both businessmen will make a healthy return on the £220m they paid 18 months ago.

DIC appears sure that Hicks' public attempts to find the finance to acquire the club outright for himself are doomed to failure. DIC expects the Texan to sell to it and believes he is now just posturing.

Meetings have continued behind the scenes over the last few weeks, including several with former players and people who have influence at the club, as DIC wants to make sure it has the fans' approval, which the company believes is vital.

A sure sign of their confidence is the decision by DIC chief executive Samir Al-Ansari and their chief negotiator Amanda Staveley to accept an invitation from Gillett to see tonight's Champions League semi against Chelsea at Anfield.