Man Utd takeover: Sheikh Jassim stubbornness has given Sir Jim Ratcliffe a key advantage
Manchester United takeover: Sheikh Jassim and Sir Jim Ratcliffe are continuing to battle while the Glazers are yet to make a final decision on the future of the club.
Right now, the race to complete a takeover of Manchester United is an open one. Sheikh Jassim and Sir Jim Ratcliffe are both still in the hunt, while the Glazers are yet to make a final decision when it comes to their asset. However, by showing a willingness to let the Americans stay on in a reduced capacity, it’s the INEOS chief who seems to hold an advantage…
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
It’s an open secret that brothers Joel and Avram Glazer would, in an ideal position, stay on at United.
They, rather than their four siblings, have always had an affection for the club - even if it doesn’t always feel like it.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer once told protesting fans that Joel, in particular, cares. This was during the European Super League debacle of 2021, when supporters stormed the club’s Carrington training complex.
Obviously, the Glazers taking out more than they’ve put in laughs in the face of that statement.
But that’s always been the party line and the pair’s determination to cling to United is something Sheikh Jassim is battling to overcome.
Under the Qatari billionaire, the family would gather up their belongings and stroll off into the sunset.
Yet Ratcliffe, being the canny businessman he is, has proposed the two committed siblings staying.
The Glazers wouldn’t have the same power as before, of course. Instead, it would be Ratcliffe and INEOS calling all the shots and making all the big decisions.
However, they’d still be able to profit from the club before cashing out in the next two to four years.
And everybody knows profit is one of the Glazers’ favourite words as they consider all options on the table.
Want the latest football news? Join our brand new Facebook group by clicking here
Man Utd takeover: Sheikh Jassim only wants 100 per cent control (Image: GETTY)
For now, it seems to be a straight fight between Sheikh Jassim and Ratcliffe as the clock continues to tick.
But there’s still a sense the Glazers could merely be using this whole process as a smokescreen to ensure they don’t have to give up any of their privileges whatsoever.
It is currently unclear what other discussions are taking place behind the scenes.
Yet Elliot Management and the Carlyle Group are prepared to provide minority investment which would allow the Glazers to refurbish and redevelop Old Trafford while remaining at the helm.
Trending
Man Utd takeover: The Glazers are yet to decide amid Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Sheikh Jassim battle (Image: GETTY)
That, in the eyes of many associated with United, would be the worst-case scenario.
And it’s something that well and truly can’t be discounted at this stage, with the saga seemingly evolving with each and every passing hour.
Things should become clearer in the coming days.
And whether Sheikh Jassim continues his pursuit, amid talk of a fifth bid, is something only time will tell.