Britain’s richest man Sir Jim Ratcliffe is interested in buying Manchester United from the Glazer family as speculation mounts the American businessmen could be interested in selling.
While it is unlikely for now that the Glazers cut ties entirely, they are thought to be open to the idea of selling a minority stake in the club, US private equity firm Apollo are rumoured to be in exclusive talks over the purchase of the stake. Ratcliffe's intentions are entirely different, as he is not expected to be interested in anything less than the purchase of the entire club.
There is increased pressure on the Glazers from United's disgruntled fanbase to part ways with the club due to a number of factors, including fading on-pitch fortunes and a run-down, dishevelled home stadium in desperate need of repairs - something only the owners can sanction. Morale is arguably the lowest it has been at United for quite some time.
Ratcliffe's proposed bid for United would include some former players, though they have not been named at this stage. British cycling coach Sir Dave Brailsford is also expected to be on board.
The cycling titan has previously worked with Ratcliffe when managing UCI WorldTeam Ineos Grenadiers - sponsored by Ineos, a British multinational chemicals company founded by Ratcliffe.
While United have declined to comment on the rumours, Ratcliffe has made little secret of his desire to pry the club away from the Glazers. "If the club is for sale, Jim is definitely a potential buyer,” Ratcliffe’s spokesperson told the Times.
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"If something like this was possible, we would be interested in talking with a view to long-term ownership." Reports of preliminary discussions having taken place between the Glazers about offloading shares and bringing in fresh investment will serve as encouragement for Ratcliffe, but that alone is not enough.
Ratcliffe addressed the frustration of the fans as his spokesperson added: "This is not about the money that has been spent or not spent. Jim is looking at what can be done now and, knowing how important the club is to the city, it feels like the time is right for a reset."
More protests from the fans are expected ahead of United's next fixture at home against fierce rivals Liverpool on Monday night. Brothers Joel and Avram Glazer are the face of their operation with United and both are reportedly against conceding control of the day-to-day running of United, but other family members want out.
