OXFORD United fans are excited about the prospect of a potential new wealthy backer – but many will remain cautious until they know more about his plans.

Juan Sartori’s offer to buy the Sky Bet League One club from Darryl Eales has provoked much debate among supporters.

There is a great deal of positivity about what a financial injection could provide, but two over-riding factors appear to dominate thoughts – Michael Appleton and the stadium.

Sartori was due to meet stadium owner Firoz Kassam in Monaco yesterday to discuss the ongoing issue with United’s ground.

But with the stock of head coach Appleton extremely high, keeping the manager is the key factor according to most.

“The takeover talk is very exciting,” said 77-year-old Raymond Monger, a long-time fan. “But we have to keep Michael Appleton. He is just brilliant.

“I’ve seen many managers come and go, but he could be one of our best.

“We have to hold on to him – and Darryl Eales too. Hopefully he will stay on in some form.”

Paul Salcombe agreed, but did sound a note of caution.

“Michael Appleton is the key,” he said. “Everyone is right behind him because he is a winner.

“If we can keep the squad together and add a few players I think we can get to the Championship.

“It’s exciting to have this takeover talk, but we have been doing so well of late with the set-up we have, so it is bit of a double-edged sword.”

Marrying the club and stadium together again is another big talking point.

“Nobody knows how things are going to end up, but I would like to see a supporters’ trust own the ground rather than an individual so we know the future of the club is secure,” said Mark Taylor.

“We cannot go on being tenants.”

Chris Dale added: “The fact he (Sartori) is having talks with Kassam is excellent.

“That’s what we want – the club and stadium to be one so we can do things with the ground without having to go through a complete rigmarole.”

Joe Nicholls believes a fresh investor could take United to the next level.

“Darryl has completely transformed the club and the last two-and-a-half seasons have just been amazing,” he said.

“But he has already said that he needs help if we are going to reach the Championship so it makes sense.

“Of course you look at other clubs like Leyton Orient and maybe Portsmouth and see how it has gone with new owners, but there are enough good people around Oxford United to ensure that doesn’t happen here.

“I think ‘cautiously optimistic’ would probably sum up my thoughts.”