The potential sale of Manchester United to Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani has encountered uncertainties as the Glazer family, current owners of the club, have not yet responded to his latest £6 billion Qatar takeover bid attracting attention from Liverpool.
Bid Race: Sheikh Jassim and Ratcliffe
Sheikh Jassim, along with British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe, has been one of the frontrunners in the race to acquire the club. While Ratcliffe is reportedly interested in purchasing over 50% of United, Sheikh Jassim aims to secure full control.
The sale process has been protracted, frustrating Sheikh Jassim and prompting him to submit a fifth take-it-or-leave-it offer. It remains to be seen how the Glazers will respond as they evaluate their options.
Qatar Takeover: United Sale Sparks Interest in Liverpool
The potential sale of Manchester United has attracted attention from other football clubs, particularly Liverpool, as it could potentially set a benchmark for the value of minority stakes. Liverpool’s owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), have previously expressed interest in selling a minority share of their club.
These two clubs are the most successful in England. If United is sold, FSG could use the sale price as a reference for the value of a stake in Liverpool. Financial experts estimate United’s value at £4.72 billion, with Liverpool valued at £4.16 billion.
FSG’s principal owner, John Henry, confirmed ongoing discussions with potential investors but clarified that it would not result in a sale. Speaking to the Boston Sports Journal, he said:
“I know there has been a lot of conversation and quotes about Liverpool, but I keep to the facts: We merely formalised an ongoing process.
Will we be in England forever? No. Are we selling Liverpool? No. Are talking with investors about Liverpool?
Yes. Will something happen there? I believe so, but it won’t be a sale. Have we sold anything in the past 20-plus years?”
Ownership Battle for Manchester United as Qatar bid and Liverpool waits
Reports suggest that Sheikh Jassim has garnered support from Manchester United investors, adding further weight to his bid. However, the Glazers still prefer Ratcliffe as the potential buyer, although complications surround this option.
Supporters of the club may be unhappy with Ratcliffe’s involvement as it could mean the Glazers retain a diminished role. Sheikh Jassim’s bid for complete control of the club has faced delays, leaving him uncertain about the Glazers’ intentions.
Sheikh Jassim Frustrated in Manchester United Sale Process
The Guardian reports that the lack of communication from the Glazers’ representatives, the Raine Group, (the investment bank) has caused frustration for Sheikh Jassim, who remains unsure of their stance.
The Qatari banker is aware that the situation may change rapidly and is prepared for further developments.
Alongside Sir Jim Ratcliffe, he is one of the few publicly declared bidders for Manchester United. The Glazers initiated the sale process in November last year, indicating their willingness to explore strategic alternatives.
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