An "extra stage of bidding" has now arrived at Manchester United, according to journalist Ben Jacobs, as talk of a big-money takeover at Old Trafford continues.

What's happening with Man Utd's takeover?

This has been a successful season for the Red Devils to date, following their EFL Cup triumph earlier in the campaign, and it could get even better over the next month or so. United are still in with a good chance of securing both Europa League and FA Cup glory before the end of the season, with a top-four finish in the Premier League also on the cards.

Away from the pitch, rumours continue to emerge regarding the potential takeover of the club, with the Glazers possibly open to selling either a minority stake or 100% of the club to the highest bidder. It looks like a straight shootout between Sheikh Jassim and Sir Jim Ratcliffe, as things stand, with both already seeing initial offers rejected and have since made revised bids.

Now, a new report has emerged regarding the matter, as the saga continues to rumble on.

Could there be another round of bids?

Taking to Twitter, Jacobs provided an update on the situation, claiming things are still 'on track' and that there is expected to be clarity 'this week' after second offers were submitted last month.

"Manchester United suitors expect to hear back from Raine Group this week and get clarity on the next step of the process. Things largely still on track despite the second bids of Sheikh Jassim and Sir Jim Ratcliffe coming in slightly late."Quick second-bid deadline after meetings at Old Trafford has allowed for an extra stage of bidding, if needed, without altering the timescale significantly."

From a United perspective, the hope is simply that a deal can be struck as soon as possible, with the vast majority of supporters now clearly wanting the Glazer era to come to an end as soon as possible. Most likely won't care too much about who eventually becomes the Red Devils' new owner – Ratcliffe being a boyhood United supporter could appeal to some – as long as they provide more funds for signings and generally steer the club in a positive direction.It will be intriguing to see what the reaction to the next batch of bids is, as the pair try and outdo each other and take control of arguably the biggest football club in the world. Should a takeover goes through, it could feel like a seismic day in United's recent history, representing a much-needed fresh start.