According to journalist Mike Keegan, Manchester United suitor Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani has registered his company, Nine Two Foundation, in the United Kingdom.
The company’s details have been filed with Companies House, which is the official register of companies in the UK.
However, the registration of the Nine Two Foundation in the UK should not be seen as an indication of a final decision regarding the ownership of Man United.
The registration of Nine Two Foundation in the UK is a standard part of the documentation process that bidders typically undertake before a preferred offer is chosen for United’s ownership. While it is a routine procedure, the timing of the listing today appears to give a hint of Qatar’s potential takeover.
Additionally, Reuters has provided an update on the takeover situation, stating that United is currently in negotiations with Sheikh Jassim, aiming to secure exclusivity in their dealings.
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The chairman of Qatar Islamic Bank is competing against Sir Jim Ratcliffe to purchase the club. Presently, Sheikh Jassim’s offer is reportedly being viewed more favourably by the Glazers in comparison to the bid from the British billionaire.
United is currently in negotiations with Sheikh Jassim for exclusivity, meaning the club would not be able to engage with other potential bidders during this period.
However, the possibility of a new bid from Sir Jim Ratcliffe could potentially disrupt Sheikh Jassim’s exclusivity. It remains uncertain if Ratcliffe intends to make a new bid after being linked with the club since last year.
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Securing exclusivity after listing his company in the UK would be a significant step ahead for Sheikh Jassim. Former Man United player Rio Ferdinand has stated that he believes the takeover is imminent and expects Sheikh Jassim’s bid to be accepted.
The Qataris may finally see the pieces falling into place, and the United fans will be hoping that the takeover proceeds in the coming days.
