Michael Jackson Neverland Ranch Saved

Michael Jackson has made a last-minute deal to save his famous former home, Neverland ranch, just days before it was scheduled for public auction.

According to Jacko’s lawyer, L. Londell McMillan, the King of Pop worked out a "confidential" deal with Fortress Investment Group, which allows him to retain ownership of the combination house/amusement park in Los Olivos, California.

"Neverland and MJ are fine," McMillan said in a statement.

The 49-year-old singer owed $24.5 million in taxes on the 2,500-acre spread northwest of Santa Barbara, and the auction had been set for next Wednesday, March 19.

A source close to Michael said that it is not clear whether or not the singer, who has not actually lived at the ranch since being acquitted of child molestation charges in 2005, will keep the property or put it up for sale.