The Manchester United takeover scenario looms large in the backdrop as transfer speculation continues. News from the process is still circulating as the Glazers delay their choice on a preferred bidder, forcing Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani and Sir Jim Ratcliffe to wait.
In Thursday’s round-up, Express Sport goes through all of the latest Manchester United takeover news…
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s lack of confidence
The rising belief that Sheikh Jassim has surpassed Ratcliffe as the favorite to become United’s new owner appears to have spread to the INEOS camp.
Ratcliffe is losing faith in his ability to sell, according to the French newspaper Nice-Matin.
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The 70-year-old, who also controls Nice, may become increasingly pessimistic as Sheikh Jassim closes in or the Glazers decide not to sell at all.
However, this is in sharp contrast to a few weeks ago, when he was seen as the frontrunner in his pursuit of a majority share.
Joel and Avram Glazer were thought to want to stay at United in some role throughout the seven-month process.
The two most hesitant members of the Glazer family, though, are apparently ready to leave Old Trafford after 18 years.
The Financial Times reports that Joel and Avram are willing to sell their full share in the club.
It could be another sign that the American owners prefer Sheikh Jassim’s bid, which is a debt-free offer for the entire club.
Stock prices have plummeted.
United’s stock price on the New York Stock Exchange has fallen as an announcement or meaningful update continues to be postponed.
The stock price topped $25 last week amid allegations that Sheikh Jassim was negotiating a period of exclusivity.
However, the subsequent stillness caused it to slip to $23.65 and then $22.50… and then $22.28 before modestly rebounding.
Shareholders will join the club’s fan base and figures in the hope that the Glazers make a decision soon rather than later.
