Sir Jim Ratcliffe holding constant talks with Glazer family – big decisions could be made

Add as preferred source on Google

Sir Jim Ratcliffe is already getting his foot in the door at Manchester United if the latest reports are to be believed.

The 71-year-old petrochemical billionaire is set to acquire a 25 per cent stake in Manchester United which would still see the Glazer family in majority control but Sir Jim Ratcliffe has demanded that he has sporting control of the club.

Well, it seems Ineos are getting to work behind the scenes with the audit of the club underway despite the deal not being ratified yet.

This could spell trouble for two of United’s most important executives if these reports are to be believed.

Ratcliffe is in constant contact with Glazers

According to a report from the Manchester Evening News, Ratcliffe is already getting to work and has been in constant contact with the much-maligned Glazer family ahead of his takeover.

The topics of these conversations were said to be about changes in personnel at the club with Ratcliffe and Ineos seemingly wanting to make their own appointments when the takeover is complete.

The report goes on to say that this could spell bad news for Richard Arnold and John Murtough, the pair who have been under pressure from the United fanbase since they both came into their roles at the club nearly two years ago.

Erik ten Hag’s job, however, is thought to be safe with Ratcliffe believing that if the structure around the Dutchman is the best in class, then the 53-year-old can perform to the best of his abilities.

Ratcliffe’s plan

The Englishman, who grew up a United fan, reportedly has a plan for the club and may have already earmarked a few appointments he would like to make at Old Trafford.

One of those is, of course, a new sporting director. Murtough, who has been in the role for two and a half years, has struggled to impress and he may well be first out the door when the takeover is ratified.

Ratcliffe and Sir Dave Brailsford need to ensure they appoint the best in class at the club whether it’s former AS Monaco director Paul Mitchell or Dan Ashworth from Newcastle United – who has been linked with the role– the best in class is needed.