The former Football League chairman is thought to be formulating a more ’supporter friendly’ approach which would stop Glazer in his tracks, although his position as fans’ champion is undermined by his role as advisor to the ultimately unsuccessful BSkyB bid for United in 1999.

Nevertheless, a delegation of supporters opted to meet Harris this afternoon for what have been described as ’informative discussions’, with the door being left open for another meeting at some point in the future.

“Exploratory talks have taken place and we remain open to the possibility of further discussions,” said IMUSA chairman Jules Spencer.

“The meeting was informative and the supporters remain focused on our primary aim, which is to prevent Malcolm Glazer taking over our club.”

Earlier, Shareholders United spokesman Oliver Houston, who like Spencer, was part of the group that met Harris, had spoken of the need for United fans to back their club ‘in its hour of need’.

IMUSA and SU have spent the last fortnight campaigning vigorously against Glazer, who made a preliminary approach to the Red Devils board on October 3.

Seven days ago, following news that talks between Glazer and major shareholders John Magnier and JP McManus had broken down, the supporters thought they had some time to regroup.

Since then though, Glazer has launched an aggressive Stock Market raid, splashing out £65million to increase his stake in the club from 19.1% to 28.1%, within touching distance of the 30% threshold that would trigger a full bid.

The Press Association understands Glazer, owner of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers NFL franchise, is considering his options and no bid is expected by the end of the week.

This does not mean one will not be forthcoming, however, and with United in an Offer Period, the pressure is on the American to make up his mind and bring some semblance of stability to the situation.