Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani reportedly harbours concerns over the prospect of the Glazer family ultimately declining to sell Manchester United.
Last November, the Glazers publicly expressed their willingness to entertain the idea of selling the 20-time English champions. Initially, it was anticipated that a takeover might materialize before the commencement of the summer transfer window.
However, as disclosed by the Manchester Evening News, Sheikh Jassim’s offer of £5 billion, submitted in May, is still awaiting a response. This has engendered a palpable “real concern” that the Glazers may opt against relinquishing control of the Red Devils, even after an ongoing process spanning nine months.
British tycoon Sir Jim Ratcliffe is also believed to have a bid on the table. Notably, the Ineos Group’s proposal pertains to a controlling stake rather than 100% ownership of the club.
Evidently, a divergence of opinion persists among the Glazer siblings regarding the most prudent course of action. Both Sheikh Jassim and Ratcliffe are reportedly growing less sanguine about the feasibility of executing a takeover.
Sheikh Jassim has unequivocally conveyed his willingness to furnish additional funds for the enhancement of Old Trafford and the club’s Carrington training complex. Man United’s facilities have lagged behind those of their competitors, prompting the desire for substantial improvements.
Despite the prevailing uncertainty surrounding ownership, the club has managed to secure three significant signings this summer, namely Mason Mount, Andre Onana, and Rasmus Hojlund.
Nonetheless, the constraints imposed by Financial Fair Play regulations allegedly restrict Man United from effecting any further acquisitions unless significant departures occur.
During his pre-match press conference prior to the impending Tottenham Hotspur encounter, Manager Erik ten Hag asserted that his team remains poised to seize opportunities in the concluding stages of the transfer window, should the right prospects arise.
Among the players the club seemingly hoped to offload at this juncture are Brandon Williams, Eric Bailly, and Donny van de Beek.
While a potential move for Harry Maguire to West Ham United was in the offing, it has now fallen through, resulting in a missed opportunity for Man United to secure a potential £30 million.
Intriguingly, Jonny Evans could potentially emerge as the club’s fourth acquisition this summer. Ten Hag revealed that negotiations with the Northern Ireland international are still underway.
As they prepare to face Tottenham Hotspur, Man United strives to secure a consecutive victory at the onset of the season, following their 1-0 triumph over Wolverhampton Wanderers in the commencement of the 2023-24 campaign.
