Both parties have submitted multiple bids to Raine Group, the American bank overseeing the potential takeover. However, the process has been protracted due to alleged disagreements within the Glazer family regarding whether to allow a complete sale or only entertain a minority investment. This uncertainty has left Sheikh Jassim and Ratcliffe in a state of limbo.
Initially, it was believed that Ratcliffe was Manchester United's preferred choice. Nevertheless, Sheikh Jassim reportedly presented a fifth and final offer for the club last week. Although the 44-year-old had set a Friday deadline for a response, his bid remains active, and reports from Qatar now suggest that Sheikh Jassim is poised to secure victory in the race to acquire the club.
According to Al-Watan, as reported by The Mirror, an announcement regarding Sheikh Jassim's takeover is imminent, signaling the Glazers' departure after an eventful 18-year tenure. Sheikh Jassim has purportedly committed to substantial investments in Old Trafford and the club's training ground if his takeover bid proves successful. He aims to acquire the entirety of the club.
In contrast, Ratcliffe's bid was solely for a controlling stake, allowing the Glazers to retain minority ownership, with the possibility of a full takeover after three years.
The current owners of Manchester United had been holding out for a £6 billion price tag to sell the club. While Sheikh Jassim's latest offer is closer to £5 billion, there is optimism that a deal will be reached. However, his takeover bid has recently been mired in controversy amid claims that he sought the assistance of Paris Saint-Germain president and compatriot Nasser Al-Khelaifi. Al-Khelaifi, the chairman of beIN Media Group, has denied any involvement in the process, emphasizing his dedication to PSG but expressing a willingness to provide his "opinion" if requested.
The Glazers assumed full control of Manchester United in 2005, but their ownership has been met with vehement fan protests over the past 18 years. Supporters have criticized the American family for their substantial debts amounting to £969.6 million, and the recent European Super League debacle led fans to storm the Old Trafford pitch in protest.