The Glazer family remain in talks with multiple parties regarding the potential sale of Manchester United, according to the Daily Mail.
Qatar’s Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani and British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe top the list of interested parties.
Both have submitted bids valuing Manchester United at £5 billion – a cool £1bn adrift of the Glazers’ asking price.
While Sheikh Al Thani wants a total buyout, Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s proposal is a staged takeover, allowing the Glazer family to retain their interest for a defined period.
United fans do not want the second option because it means the Glazers, who have faced relentless criticism since their controversial leveraged takeover in 2005, will remain at the club.
There is reportedly growing confidence among the people close to Sheikh Al Thani’s bid.
However, the Glazers are in discussions with multiple parties, suggesting various options for the club’s future.
The Glazers may opt for a partial stake sale to one of the alternative bidders. The move could provide much-needed funds to renovate the club’s home and training facilities.
While the delay has frustrated the bidders, it has not hindered manager Erik ten Hag’s summer transfer plans, but the Dutch manager wants the takeover to be resolved soon.
United recently announced a ten-year extension to their partnership with adidas, securing £900 million. The deal is the most lucrative kit sponsorship in Premier League history.
This development will not affect the ongoing negotiations for the United takeover managed by the United States merchant bank Raine Group.
Interested parties have already received presentations on the club’s financial status during the sales process. They took into account potential revenue boosts like the new kit deal.
