As reported by the Manchester Evening News, The resolution of the Manchester United takeover saga may be delayed until the end of the Premier League season, as the Glazer family remains undecided among various contenders after six months of discussions.
Talks with Sir Jim Ratcliffe, owner of Ineos, have shown promising signs, but there has been no indication from the Glazers’ inner circle that they are ready to declare him as the preferred bidder.
Qatar’s Sheikh Jassim also remains a strong contender, despite recent tensions involved in the process.
The delay in finalizing a deal has put the controversial owners under increasing pressure to make a decision before the upcoming summer transfer window. However, the possibility of announcing a preferred bidder this week has been completely ruled out.
While there is hope that the process can be resolved by the end of the month, key figures are uncertain about the timeline.
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The Premier League season ends on May 28, but United’s last match is the FA Cup final against Manchester City on June 5. Manager Erik Ten Hag wants clarity to proceed with his plans for the transfer window.
Behind the scenes, there is significant uncertainty and conflicting claims emerging, leading to strained relationships. Sheikh Jassim’s team has reportedly expressed a preference to directly deal with the Glazers rather than their bankers overseeing the sale.
There were claims that his latest offer was sent directly to the family. While minority offers have also been placed, there remains a chance that the Glazers may decide against selling the club altogether.
Key figures point to the club’s initial statement in November, stating that there is no assurance that they will sell 100% of the club.
The ongoing uncertainty has already angered United fans, and further protests can be expected during the club’s remaining Premier League games at Old Trafford against Fulham and Chelsea.
Sheikh Jassim filed a last-minute offer outside the formal bidding timeline, increasing his bid for a 100% purchase of the club.
The new terms include a commitment to clear United’s existing debts and establish a separate fund dedicated to the club and community. Sir Jim Ratcliffe was reportedly the closest to the Glazers’ £6 billion valuation after the third-round deadline on April 28.
His offer included buying the 69% shareholding or acquiring a 50.1% share that would allow the current owners to retain a minority stake for three years before being forced out.
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The situation now depends on whether Joel and Avram, the United co-chairmen, who have shown reluctance to relinquish control, decide whether they want to retain a stake in the club or not.
Three American investment firms, Elliott Management, the Carlyle Group, and Ares Management, are also offering to buy a minority stake, which could potentially be used to finance the redevelopment of Old Trafford unless Joel and Avram choose to buy out their four siblings.
In that case, additional financing would be required for the stadium and training ground refurbishment.
