An Argentinian consortium has held further talks over a possible purchase of St Mirren along with former Rangers player and chief scout Neil Murray.

Murray, who has worked as a football agent and accountant, emerged from the St Mirren Park boardroom with the four men on Thursday afternoon - shortly after the club held a media conference to preview Saturday's Scottish Premiership clash with Motherwell.

The Argentinians turned their attention to St Mirren after failing to secure a deal to buy a majority stake in Motherwell.

Murray, who left his role as Rangers scout in April 2013, days after being suspended by the club, was later photographed driving his four associates out of the St Mirren Park car park.

One of the men, who was pictured in the front seat next to Murray, is believed to be Argentinian Ricardo Pini.

Pini and his brother, Sebastian, who is also believed to have been at St Mirren Park, were previously involved with Chilean club Rangers de Talca.

Their group's £560,000 purchase of the club in 2010 was ratified after two court cases and the club was sold earlier this year following the team's relegation to the Chilean second flight.

St Mirren have been up for sale since September 2009 but the ruling consortium, including chairman Stewart Gilmour, has stated it will only sell if a deal is in the best interests of the club.

Saints director Bryan McAusland said: "They are not the first people we have spoken to. We've had about 20 groups in over the last few years.

"There was no offer made. I think they have been in chatting to Motherwell recently but there is nothing concrete as far as we're concerned.

"I wish it was. The club needs change but we've been saying that for a while.

"They seem like decent enough guys. We've had a wee look at them and they seem okay so far.

"They had a look about the stadium today and asked for some information. They also had a look at Ralston (the club's training ground) and watched an under-20s game yesterday.

"They are still here and I think one or two of them might be at the game this weekend.

"But there is nothing concrete to report. Over the years we have had a lot of guys come in and have a look about. We've had people put in letters of intent but that means nothing.

"I think people would like to get something done within the transfer window but with Christmas coming up I can't see it happening soon. If it does happen, it will be after the New Year but we are still at an early stage. As I said, there has been no offer made."

Murray did not immediately respond to messages.

Caretaker manager Gary Teale has met the consortium and said: "I had a good chat with them, but I don't know how far down the line they are."

St Mirren fans will be hoping the Argentinians' interest in their club does not prolong their search for a new manager, as it did at Fir Park.

Teale looks certain to be in charge when the Lanarkshire side visit Paisley on Saturday with their new boss, Ian Baraclough.

Saints fell to the bottom of the table last weekend but can draw level with Motherwell on Saturday.

Teale said: "It's not going to change overnight because we have been in the bottom two or three since the start of the season.

"But I'm confident that we have implemented changes that you are going to see the results of on Saturday.

"Results haven't been good enough, we have not picked up a home win all season which in anybody's language is unacceptable.

"We have to put on a performance and look to get three points because fans expect to win the home games.

"Everything this week has been positive, we are upbeat."