The £200million American takeover of Burnley is set to be signed off next week.
Sportsmail understands that staff at the club have now been told to prepare for a change of ownership.
ALK Capital, the sports investment firm fronted by financial guru Alan Pace, will receive Premier League approval to complete their deal.
They had faced competition from Egyptian businessman Mohamed El Kashashy and sports lawyer Chris Farnell, but sources have expressed doubt over the strength of that offer.
It has also been suggested that Clarets chairman Mike Garlick could remain at the club in the short term.
The arrival of new owners ahead of the January transfer window would be a welcome boost for manager Sean Dyche, whose side are currently third from bottom in the Premier League.