Tony Fernandes confirmed he was out of the running for ownership of West Ham United last night.
Reports suggest David Sullivan and David Gold could be confirmed as the new owners of the Hammers as early as today after Fernandes posted a Twitter message seemingly walking away.
The Malaysian businessman said: "Deal lost on West Ham. Hopefully new owners protect what's good. We gave awesome deal and new ideas to rejuvenate a club and bring excitement."
While investment group Intermarket are still said to be in the race, Sullivan and Gold - who sold Birmingham to Hong Kong entrepreneur Carson Yeung earlier this season - are clear favourites to land the club they have been eyeing for some time.