Manchester United has been at the center of speculations on its ownership, with the Glazer Family considering offers from various parties. Among the bidders are British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al-Thani.
Sheikh Jassim’s improved bid
Sources have revealed that Sheikh Jassim has made an improved offer more than two weeks after Raine Group, the merchant bank handling the process, asked for final proposals to be submitted. This move comes amidst rumors that the Glazer Family is considering Ratcliffe’s higher-valued offer, which included plans for siblings Joel and Avram Glazer to remain as shareholders.
Details of Sheikh Jassim’s proposal
Sheikh Jassim’s new proposal is for 100% ownership of Manchester United and includes a separate fund to redevelop Old Trafford and improve the playing squad. The Qatari offer also promises to remove all debt accumulated during the 18 years of Glazer ownership.
Next stage of the process
Raine Group has also received offers for a minority stake from U.S.-based investment groups including Elliott Management, Ares Management, Sixth Street, and Carlyle. The merchant bank will now name a preferred bidder to enter a period of exclusivity, granting the chosen party further access to the club’s financials. Manchester United staff were told to expect clarity on the ownership situation by the end of the season, and with the deadline fast approaching, the football world waits with bated breath.
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