THISTLE FOR EVER, the Partick Thistle supporters group who have launched a bid to buy a controlling stake in the club, are 'edging closer' to pushing through a deal according to reports.

The Daily Mail are reporting that the bid, funded by Euromillions winner Colin Weir, is being given 'serious consideration' by a group of key shareholders that includes current chairman David Beattie.

As well as buying out the club, Thistle For Ever would also gain ownership of the south terrace and the main stand at Firhill, so that the entire ground would be no longer in the hands of private owners.

The Herald:

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As well as the proposed fan ownership takeover, another bid from billionaire consortium NewCity Capital -who also own English Championship side Barnsley and Ligue 1's Nice - has been lodged.

Their bid, however, could fall foul of the English Football League's rules surrounding dual-interest and would require a special dispensation from the Scottish FA.

Thistle For Ever currently own almost 27% of the club's shares and are aiming to gain a controling stake, wth Weir providing unconditional financial support to get the deal pushed through.

The benfactor would want no role in the day-to-day running of the club - and would resume his funding of the club's youth academy, as well as providing the necessary funds for Thistle to build a training ground.