Based on the publicly declared bids for one of the world's most iconic soccer teams, the frontrunners are Qatari banker Sheikh
There is also the possibility that the current American owners, the Glazer family, could yet retain control of the team, despite raising hopes among supporters they would finally walk away after repeated attempts by fans to drive them out.
After a second round of bidding last week,
The person spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to comment publicly.
American merchant bank Raine's decision to extend the deadline for the rival bidders to fine-tune their second bids has added to the feeling that it is effectively a two-horse race if there is to be an outright takeover of the 20-time English league champions.
Raine is handling the proposed sale on behalf of the Glazers and is also exploring other “strategic alternatives” that may see the family remain in place by selling a minority stake or take up other funding options.
The Glazers, who also own the
Finnish entrepreneur
But it is
QATARI SHEIKH
He has submitted an offer to buy out the Glazer family, with the bid said to be completely separate from Qatari-owned Paris Saint-Germain.
While concerns have been raised about
He has promised to rid the club of debt, invest in the stadium, training center and playing squads in a bid to “return the club to its former glories both on and off the pitch.”
Meanwhile, supporters would hope a
The billionaire owner of petrochemicals giant
Born in Failsworth,
Ratcliffe has bid for the Glazers' stake of about 69%, a person with knowledge of the offer said.
The person spoke on the condition of anonymity because details of the bid have not been made public.
Ratcliffe is said to be worth
Last year, he failed in a bid to buy
American investment firm
Elliott has, however, bid for a minority stake and is prepared to offer capital or finance to other potential buyers, a person with knowledge of the process said.
The person spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to comment publicly about the bid.
A minority stake or capital investment could provide a way for the Glazers to remain in control, while carrying out necessary development of United's iconic, but ageing, Old Trafford stadium.
Elliott took control of
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