According to reports, a Manchester United takeover may happen ‘soon’ if the Glazers decide on a favored candidate. After receiving proposals from Sheikh Jassim and Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the family has yet to determine what to do with the club. However, news that the situation can evolve will bolster Erik ten Hag’s efforts to enhance the squad this summer.
Manchester United is still in upheaval as the end of the season approaches.
Since November, when the Glazers first hinted at a possible sale, the club has been dogged by takeover speculation.
However, journalist Ben Jacobs has given Ten Hag a boost by claiming that things could move ‘fast’ after the Glazers settle on a preferred buyer.
Ten Hag is now awaiting news in order to add to his team during the summer transfer window.
“These kinds of deals take as long as they take in many ways,” Jacobs told GiveMeSport.
“It will be difficult to move forward until a single group is chosen.”
“The upside is that much of what has happened so far is transactionally backwards and would traditionally be associated with a period of exclusivity.”
“Those logistical elements, such as preparation for a Premier League Owners’ and Directors’ Test and due diligence, can take a long time.”
“Because they’ve been done ahead of a preferred bidder at large, it does mean that if the Glazers choose to green-light something, things could still move reasonably quickly by takeover standards.”
However, the Glazers have yet to commit to a political party.
Sheikh Jassim has made four bids for the club, while rival Ratcliffe has made three.
Ratcliffe is willing to let Joel and Avram Glazer, siblings, stay at United in reduced capacities.
Under INEOS rules, the siblings would then be able to sell their existing shares for a premium at a later date.
However, Sheikh Jassim only wants complete control and will not allow the family to remain in any capacity at the club.
There is also the possibility that the Glazers will opt for a minority investment rather than a comprehensive sell.
Elliot Management, which previously held power at Serie A heavyweights AC Milan, is one company willing to put money up to help the family.
Carlyle Group is another consortium willing to lend money to the Glazers for projects such as the reconstruction and refurbishment of Old Trafford.
Meanwhile, Gary Neville recently opened up about the takeover process and appealed once more for the Glazers to pack their belongings and depart.
“I haven’t heard the pledges made by any of the bids,” he said.
“Right now, there are three bids: the Jim Ratcliffe bid, the Qatari bid, and a number of US investment funds.”
“I’ll be clear: I don’t want private equity in an English football club.” I don’t believe it works.