Matthew Le Tissier expected to be named Southampton FC chairman today

Their three-week exclusivity period comes to an end this evening and, by that time at the very latest, they hope to have tied up the loose ends to become the new owners of Saints.

Pinnacle boss Tony Lynam, who is managing the bid on behalf of a wealthy investor, has been working round the clock to resolve various legal and logistical complexities.

It has been reported that the Football League have delayed matters as they examine the full details of the potential bid, which are rumoured to include an attempt to rescind the 10-point deduction.

As reported by the Daily Echo yesterday, Pinnacle have submitted the list of prospective new directors to the Football League, which is one of the last jobs on the checklist. Those names will be revealed when their bid is completed.

The list is known to contain Matt Le Tissier, pictured right, who is expected to be chairman, and Lynam – and it seems increasingly possible that Leon Crouch will be another.

It is also expected that the mystery backer will be on the board and his identity, which has been kept a secret, will be of massive interest to Saints fans.

It will give an immediate clue as to whether they can expect some lavish spending or some more prudent future plans at St Mary’s.

The announcement, when it comes, is expected to take the form of a statement, and a press conference will follow.

It is hoped that the deal will completed early enough that that can take place today.

But if that proves not to be the case, it will be scheduled at St Mary’s for Monday.

If there is some last-minute hitch, then the administrators have two options – either to come to an agreement with Pinnacle to extend their exclusivity period or to turn to another group.

At least two other consortiums are waiting in the wings but both would only act if Pinnacle are not able to deliver their deal.