Former Zenit St Petersburg chairman David Traktovenko is in line to buy out Sydney FC. The Australian says while he is not expected to sever his ties completely, Sydney owner Frank Lowy is believed to be ready to give up his family's controlling interest for a minor holding in what would be a huge blow to the club.

An announcement could come as early as Tuesday. There are suggestions Russian millionaire Traktovenko, who has a 22 per cent share in the club, is ready to increase his stake.

However, an insider said that he "could not see Frank allowing him to have the major stake".

"These things would not be happening if the club was winning," the source said.