A major development is unfolding regarding the ownership of Manchester United.
After Bloomberg reported the Glazer family are open to selling a minority stake, billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe has stepped forward as a buyer.
The Times reports Ratcliffe’s company Ineos want to purchase the stake, with a view to becoming full owners.
This development will give Manchester United fans across the world hope of a bright new future without the Glazers.
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Jim Ratcliffe spokesperson confirms he wants to buy Manchester United
A spokesperson for Ratcliffe’s company Ineos said: “If the club is for sale, Jim is definitely a potential buyer.
“If something like this was possible, we would be interested in talking with a view to long-term ownership.
“This is not about the money that has been spent or not spent. Jim is looking at what can be done now and, knowing how important the club is to the city, it feels like the time is right for a reset.”
Sir Jim Ratcliffe: What you need to know
The Failsworth born billionaire is a Manchester United supporter, and signalled his intent to purchase a football club when he stepped in late to attempt to buy Chelsea earlier this year.
Asked about buying Manchester United at the time, he told BBC Sport: “Yes I can understand that.. but Manchester United’s not for sale.”
Now it appears he may be ready to spend some of his wealth. The Star report he is worth at least £12 billion, with some estimates far higher.
Pressure is increasing on the Glazer family to sell up after 17 years of ruinous ownership.
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