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The Birmingham Mail understands that plans for a takeover at Aston Villa are finally gathering pace.

Three separate groups are believed to have been granted access to the books as owner Randy Lerner looks to offload the relegated club.

Potential buyers from the United Kingdom, the United States and China are understood to have all offered the £100 million asking price and have been allowed to carry out due diligence.

Below: Business Editor Graeme Brown gives his verdict on the possibility of a deal with China

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Reports elsewhere today have suggested that the mystery British consortium - said to be made up of wealthy Villa fans - are closing in on a deal and that it could progress towards a conclusion by the weekend.

That scenario would seem premature, according to the version of events that we have been given.

Earlier this week Villa were still encouraging other interested parties to enter the process, which relies on the satisfactory completion of two main documents - a non disclosure agreement and a buyers' questionnaire, including proof of funds and solicitor and accountancy details.

It is being handled by law firm Squire Patton Boggs, which has offices in London.

The Birmingham Mail has been told that Lerner is still keen to ensure the Villa is sold to a buyer with the club's best interests at heart, although the owner is more determined than ever for a takeover to go through after several aborted attempts since making known his intention to sell.

It is believed that the closest he has been to selling Villa was around May 2014, when a deal with American billionaires Josh Harris and David Blitzer narrowly failed to reach completion. The duo instead invested in Crystal Palace last December.

There does seem to be a realistic prospect of a takeover happening this time - and Sir Mervyn King has hinted heavily about a sale since resigning from his short spell on the board on Monday.

Randy, remember your responsibilities: Watch Mat Kendrick's message to the owner at the top of this page

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