Sir Jim Ratcliffe could be the man to end the Glazer family’s 17-year reign of apathy at Old Trafford. Supporters are getting excited at the prospect of Manchester United changing hands for the first time since 2005.
The Telegraph are reporting that the 70-year-old will bid for the club just 24 hours after news broke about the Glazers’ potential exit. A statement from the family on Tuesday discussed the possibility of selling the club.
"As we seek to continue building on the club's history of success, the board has authorised a thorough evaluation of strategic alternatives," it read. "We will evaluate all options to ensure that we best serve our fans and that Manchester United maximises the significant growth opportunities available to the club today and in the future.
Read more: Glazers confirm United is up for sale
"Throughout this process, we will remain fully focused on serving the best interests of our fans, shareholders, and various stakeholders."
With Ratcliffe emerging as the first potential candidate to take over, Manchester Evening News profiled the man who could be set to clinch the keys to Old Trafford.
Who is Jim Ratcliffe?
Born in Oldham in 1952, Ratcliffe - the son of a joiner - claims to be a lifelong supporter. A spokesperson hinted at his desire to buy United being motivated by love - rather than finances - back in August.
"This is not about the money that has been spent or not spent," a close advisor said. "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."
However, reports also suggest that Ratcliffe is a Chelsea season ticket holder. As the chairman of chemical group Ineos, a company he founded in 1998, he is responsible for operating one of the biggest businesses of its kind in the world.
The potential United owner was knighted by the Queen for services to business and investment in 2018.
How much is he worth?
Various estimations have been made regarding Ratcliffe’s wealth. It is undisputed, however, that the figure lies in the billions.
He has, at various times in his life, been heralded as the richest man in the UK. As of 2020, Bloomberg Billionaires List valued his fortune at £23.38billion. For context, the Glazer family are believed to be worth around £4billion.
Most of his wealth is tied up with Ineos, his chemical company, which he still owns two-thirds of. Should he buy United, Radcliffe’s net worth would make him the second-richest owner in the Premier League, behind the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, who own Newcastle United.
Other sporting interests
The Red Devils would not be the billionaire’s first sporting acquisition. In 2019, Ratcliffe bought Ligue 1 outfit Nice for around £90million.
An ambitious transfer window in the summer saw the club sign household names like Kasper Schmeichel, Ross Barkley and Aaron Ramsey. Despite the overhaul, Nice still headed into the World Cup break sitting mid-table.
Ratcliffe also purchased the Team Sky cycling franchise, rebranding them as Team Ineos, three years ago. Securing a long-term sponsorship with the New Zealand rugby team also demonstrates his keen enthusiasm for sport.
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