Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Qatari investors wary of Glazers’ ploy to drive up Manchester United’s price – Man United News And Transfer News

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The two main prospective buyers for Manchester United, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Qatar-based Sheikh Jassim Bin Hamad Al Thani, are still in the dark over the Glazers’ final decision as to who is the preferred bidder and when the takeover process will be concluded.

The Peoples Person covered a report which indicated that Sir Jim is the Glazer family’s chosen suitor.

Amidst this claim, it was relayed that Sheikh Jassim was considering a last-ditch offer that would effectively blow Sir Jim out of the water and make him the frontrunner to take over the reins at Old Trafford.

However, according to The Daily Mail, sources close to both Sir Jim and Sheikh Jassim believe that reports saying INEOS’s bid is preferable are wide of the mark and could be a ploy to squeeze more money out of potential buyers.

“Sources close to both Sir Jim Ratcliffe and to Sheikh Jassim of Qatar feel that stories about Ratcliffe now being in pole position may in fact be part of strategic play by New York bankers Raine to squeeze yet bigger bids from both parties,” The Mail claims.

“Ratcliffe’s bid team are understood to have been given no indication of where they currently stand but feel comfortable that their offer to leave the Glazers with 20 per cent of the club is attractive.”

“Those with knowledge of Sheikh Jassim’s thinking expect that rumours will continue to circulate about the ebb and flow of the auction, and the sheikh remains in the dark on when things may finally conclude or which way they’ll go.”

A source close to the process told The Daily Mail, “Ultimately it’s up to the Glazers what they want to do and where we go from here. The process has always been a very fluid one and, crucially, has never had a set timeframe – though clearly the fans would like one for understandable reasons.”

As of the close of trading on Friday, based on the New York Stock Exchange, United’s total share value was $2.96bn (£2.38bn).

It’s incredible that the Glazers are still keen on getting a figure close to £6bn. The United owners may yet get their wish according to a Saudi Sports Media journalist. As per this reporter, Sheikh Jassim is preparing a £6bn bid to ensure he emerges successful in his efforts to buy the club.

As the takeover enters its final stretch, the situation is likely to become clearer. This week could be decisive.

Hopefully, a deal is agreed soon so that work begins to ensure they are in place in time to offer direction in the transfer window.