Ellis may relinquish Aston Villa's control

Doug Ellis's 23-year reign as Aston Villa chairman could be drawing to a close with reports that the Premier League club will be the subject of a takeover bid in the next few days. Former Manchester City defender Ray Ranson is apparently heading the consortium, which is expected to make a formal £45 million bid.

Major shareholder Ellis has so far resisted attempts to wrestle control of Villa and a £30m bid from a consortium, which included Ranson, was rejected 14 months ago. However, Ellis has suffered health problems in recent weeks and is recovering from triple heart bypass surgery and the situation may have now changed. Ellis

currently owns 33% of Villa but Ranson's bid, still surrounded in secrecy regarding the major backer of the consortium, is believed to be supported by 20% shareholder Jack Petchey. Reports are suggesting that Ellis, who first started his association with the club in 1975 before reclaiming control in 1982, could be offered an honorary position at Villa Park if the proposed takeover reaches completion.

In the wake of the reports, fans group Villa Fans' Combined have called on Ellis to end his reign at Villa Park for the sake of the long-term prospects of the club. "This is an ideal time for Doug Ellis to walk away and save face," said VFC spokesman Jonathan Fear. I do hope Doug Ellis now does the best for himself, making sure his health is okay, and that of the club in allowing a new dynamic group the chance to take Villa forward.