Texan billionaire Ellis Short is set to increase his stake in Sunderland.

The News of the World says Short is already the major shareholder with a stake of less than 30 per cent.

His £30million investment in the summer was immediately spent on six new players, including Anton Ferdinand and Steed Malbranque.

But it still drew short shrift from former boss Keane, who blasted Short for interfering.

Now the Texan, who lives in the UK, is ready to increase his control at the club. But under business law, he will have to make a formal offer for the remaining shares in Sunderland if he exceeds 29.9 per cent.