A Port Vale supporters' group is optimistic it can win a five-way battle to take control of the Second Division club.

Valiant 2001 spokesman Bill Bratt revealed an improved offer for the club has been made to its administrators with the help of a significant input of cash from an unnamed Manchester businessman.

Vale's administrators revealed their preferred bidder in court on Thursday, and an announcement concerning the favoured option is expected early next week.

Stoke City's Icelandic owners are believed to have put in an offer, but Football League rules designed to prevent owners having interests in more than one club are likely to lead to its rejection.

Unless someone has put in a silly offer we think we're in with a good chance Bill Bratt

Others bids have come in from Waterworld owner Mo Chaudry, business partners Steve Ball and Iain McIntosh, Summerbank Management.

Mr Bratt said he was hopeful Valiant 2001 would gain control of Vale.

"We believe we have submitted the highest bid apart from the Icelandic one," he said.

"Unless someone has put in a silly offer we think we're in with a good chance."

Port Vale went into administration in December with estimated debts of more than �2m.