It should allow for quicker completion when the chosen option is relayed and, in turn, leave the unsuccessful parties with little chance of making a late attempt to overturn the decision.
The rushed manner of Roman Abramovich's sale of Chelsea, also overseen by Raine, made it important to name a preferred bidder.
However, the Glazers have prolonged the process of selling United or gaining outside investment, removing the need.
There could be light at the end of the takeover tunnel at Old Trafford, but the party who will come out on top, from the outside, is still anyone's guess.
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