Rangers have confirmed that major shareholder Sir David Murray is "considering options" regarding his shareholding in the club following reports that a takeover could be imminent.

A consortium headed by London-based property developer Andrew Ellis - a former director at QPR - is reportedly preparing to make an offer.

Reports also claim other parties are considering bids to take over the Ibrox club, which is currently £31million in debt.

Murray stepped down as chairman in August, with the Rangers board now working to a business plan in conjunction with Lloyds Banking Group.

Responding to the speculation, Rangers released a statement reading: "The board of directors of Rangers Football Club plc is aware of the recent takeover speculation in the media and refers shareholders and supporters to a previous statement issued in October.

"The club's board has been advised by its principal shareholder, Murray International Holdings Limited, that it is considering options regarding its shareholding in the club and this may or may not lead to MIH disposing of some or all of its stake in the club to a third party.

"The directors of the club will keep shareholders advised of key developments but the board is unable to comment further at this time."

Rangers manager Walter Smith and his backroom staff have been working without contracts since January in a bid to ease the financial pressure on the club.

The Ibrox boss has also failed to recruit any new players since August 2008. However, the Scottish champions head into the weekend action 10 points clear at the summit of the Clydesdale Bank Premier League.