Sheffield United owner Prince Abdullah is closing on the takeover of France's Châteauroux.

AFP reports the Blades owner has confirmed the acquisition of the Ligue 2 side is close to being finalised.

It will be the fifth club to join United World, the corporate vehicle which houses Prince Abdullah's clubs, joining United, Belgium side Beerschot, Al-Hilal United in Dubai and Indian outfit Kerala United, the most recent of the additions.

"We have been interested in Chateauroux for some time, and negotiations have taken a long time," Prince Abdullah said.

"Our project is not to buy clubs in the third division, we buy in the first division.

"Sheffield United was the exception, and now Châteauroux is an exception.

"We realised the possibility of relegation, but we have the possibility of being promoted quickly, and in a few years will be at the highest level in France.

"When I invested in England and Belgium, I was happy. But for France, I have a special feeling because it's a country that reminds me of childhood.

"My memories are numerous and my brother (the prince) Abdulrahman was born there.

"I know that Chateauroux is not far from Paris, another reason to please me when I am in France, besides the restaurants, the cafes and walks in beautiful Paris."