Carlisle United start one of biggest weeks in their history

The takeover by the Piatak family is moving closer, with hopes the deal could be wrapped up this week.

The Florida business people are set to return to Carlisle later this week ahead of the home clash with Charlton Athletic.

All the signs are that things remain on track for the final parts of the deal to be sealed soon.

It means the Cumbrians are on the brink of a major new era, with the Piataks having pledged to back United on and off the field.

The latest public comments on the subject have come from United's supporters' trust CUOSC via their weekly briefing to members.

The trust, who have had a key role in the negotiations, reported from their recent board meeting held last Wednesday.

CUOSC directors, including Nigel Davidson, left, have said it is hoped an announcement on the takeover will be made this week (Image: Barbara Abbott)

"The timescale for the takeover to go through was still not 100 per cent guaranteed," the CUOSC briefing said.

"It was hoped to be able to make an announcement before the Charlton game on November 25 but this was down to the speed at which the final parts of the process could be carried out."

Trust board members added that "all points" in a new shareholders' agreement "have been ironed out" and that it would be signed soon.

The Piataks have consistently expressed their confidence that the process of finalising the takeover was on track.

The Florida business people have also long trailed the Charlton game as a major date in the takeover.

It follows recent comments from the American family and the club that a resolution has been agreed regarding United's £2.6m debt to Purepay Retail Limited.

This, said the Piataks via their Castle Sports Group company, was a "significant milestone" in talks.

The family are planning to attend the Charlton game as well as next Tuesday's trip to Reading, as well as a series of further United fixtures in December.