INEOS founder Sir Jim Ratcliffe (Martin Rickett/PA)
(Picture: PA Archive)Sir Jim Ratcliffe, one of Britain’s richest men, has confirmed his interest in buying Manchester United.
The 70-year-old’s chemical firm Ineos announced they had formally lodged an interest with United’s current owners, the Glazer family.
The American ownership has proven vastly unpopular with supporters since their arrival at Old Trafford in 2005 and were publicly criticised by Cristiano Ronaldo during an explosive interview with Piers Morgan in November.
Hours after the star forward was released from his contract, the Glazers then confirmed they would consider selling the club, announcing they would mull over “all strategic alternatives, including new investment into the club, a sale, or other transactions”.
It was then added that the Raine Group – who managed the sale of Chelsea on behalf of former owner Roman Abramovich in May – would serve as United’s “exclusive financial advisor.”
Manager Erik ten Hag has publicly backed the idea of a takeover at Old Trafford as the Dutchman looks to restore former glories at United.
"We have formally put ourselves into the process," an Ineos spokesperson told The Times on Tuesday.
British bilionaire Ratcliffe has previously harboured ambitions of buying a Premier League club - attempting to swoop for Chelsea at the 11th hour - and is known to be a United fan.
