The battle for control of Manchester United is ongoing. Sir Jim Ratcliffe is taking a proactive role.
Manchester United supporters are anxiously waiting for firm developments on the club’s ownership.
New offers were submitted last week by Sir Jim Ratcliffe‘s Ineos and Qatari investor Sheikh Jassim.
The full picture remains cloudy, with Al Jazeera reporting the Qatari offer is ‘undisclosed’ despite media speculation putting about various figures.
Neither party are giving up yet, waiting for the Glazers and bankers The Raine Group to make their decision. Minority investment options are also in the mix.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe transfer demand
Sir Jim Ratcliffe is keen for his bid to be successful, and he wants to hit the ground running. The billionaire appears to be acutely aware of timing, in relation to the ongoing saga.
The Telegraph has reported that Ratcliffe’s offer for a majority stake include a stipulation for immediate control of transfers.
Even if a takeover was approved this week or next, it could take several weeks before a deal is ratified and fully goes through.
Ratcliffe’s demand wants control over transfers immediately, and this shows he has a real understanding of what needs focus at Manchester United in the short-term.
The transfer window is almost upon us, and Manchester United cannot blunder their way through.
This is an important summer for many clubs, and it is the first summer Erik ten Hag has had proper preparation for.
The manager will have a real idea of who needs to be sold and signed, having spent a whole season working with the squad up to now.
This takeover process has the potential to delay, hamper or block United’s budgetary plans and ambition, just like the way United were prevented from making any permanent deals in January.
Even if there were a delay and the takeover only went through in mid-July, this will be a sizeable delay, with United already heading out on pre-season tour to America by this point.
Ratcliffe is showing he understands the importance of the situation, also demonstrating a desire for the club to be successful.
A strong first season under his ownership can lay the groundwork for future success and win over any sceptical fans, especially if the Glazers were to stay on in minority roles.
Whether his demand is approved, or he even wins the race, remains to be seen. But the prospective owner is showing positive intent.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
