MALCOLM Glazer is to launch a charm offensive to persuade fellow major Manchester United shareholders to back his proposed takeover bid.

Since the takeover approach was formally announced on Monday, Glazer has been slow to mobilise in the propaganda war. But the Tampa Bay Buccaneers owner, who has a 19.2 per cent stake in United, is aware he needs other shareholders behind him if his '700m takeover is to be successful.

Irish racing millionaires John Magnier and JP McManus are United's largest stakeholders with 28.9 per cent and they would have to sell their shares to Glazer, or link up with the 76-year-old, for him to succeed in his quest. No contact has yet been made between the two major shareholders and it is understood that the Coolmore duo's stance remains as long-term investors.

Magnier and McManus are also believed to be being courted by a rival consortium. Former Football League chairman Keith Harris is reported to be trying to galvanize a counter bid to head off Glazer.

Whatever consortium or business has eyes on running United, they know that winning over the shareholding Reds fans is critical.

But Shareholders United are keener to listen to Manchester or London-based bids, if any, and are suspicious of Keith Harris's efforts.

"The idea that the fans would be used as some kind of fig leaf for a different set of asset strippers won't wash," says spokesman Oliver Houston.

"We won't be forced to make a decision between the devil and the deep blue sea. Fans want to be at the heart of this."