Manchester United’s ongoing takeover talks could be heading towards a conclusion, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe the frontrunner.
A third deadline of takeover bids was met by bidders for Manchester United at the end of last month. Since then we have been waiting.
A new report via The Sun this evening claims the Glazers have decided on their preferred bidder.
British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe is said to be their chosen option.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe in pole position
The report states: “A Ratcliffe-led partial takeover is the preferred option.”
It adds: “Old Trafford insiders have indicated the Glazers would prefer to sell majority control to Ratcliffe’s Ineos Sport rather than flogging the whole club to Sheikh Jassim.”
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s bid will include a buyout clause to purchase all the Glazers’ remaining shares by 2026, Sky News reported at the weekend.
His initial offer will see the Glazers remain as minority shareholders. The Sun‘s report states banking firm The Raine Group are expected to formalise the choice ‘within days’.
Rival bidder Sheikh Jassim had pledged to buy 100 per cent of the club, invest in the local area and take the club debt free.
Ratcliffe’s Ineos are yet to publicly comment on their plans. The Telegraph report he wants immediate control over transfers heading into the summer, even if the sale takes weeks to finalise.
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