With the mood around Old Trafford upbeat by the anticipation of a new ownership ahead of the next campaign, The fans favorite Sheik Jassim appears to be the potential new owner of the historic 20-time Premier League champion.
Although neither Sheikh Jassim nor Ratcliffe’s Ineos, his competitive bidder, have responded to the developments publicly, there is no statement from Manchester United at present.
According to UnitedInFocus, the Reuters Podcast claimed that the Qatari billionaire's bid was more attractive to minority shareholders and also ruled out a potential counterbid from Sir Jim Ratcliffe's INEOS.
As stated in an article, “Manchester United would not be allowed to negotiate with any bidder other than Sheikh Jassim for the exclusivity period.
“It cannot be learned how long this period may last. The sources cautioned that the situation remained fluid and that a new bid from Ratcliffe could prevent Sheikh Jassim from securing exclusivity.”
BBC Sport’s Simon Stone urges caution on the reports.
Re @ManUtd ownership. No exclusivity is granted. Told talks continue with multiple parties.
Simon Stone (@sistoney67) June 15, 2023
The Mirror also fueled speculation about the potential takeover news by reporting that Shiek Jassim's Nine Two Foundation has been approved as a UK firm by Companies House.
Rio Ferdinand, a former Manchester United defender, hinted that a source told him the takeover process was imminent and Sheik Jassim was set to become the new owner before posting a picture of himself in Arab attire.
Sharing what he has heard on the Rio Ferdinand Presents FIVE YouTube channel, the former United defender predicts a takeover is about to occur.
"Man United's takeover is imminent,” he said.
“We’re hearing the Qatari bid is the one that will be accepted.
“It is the one that is going to be accepted, and it is the one that is going to go through”.
The Glazers are asking around £6 billion for their team, and Shiekh Jassim last week submitted his sixth and last offer.
The Old Trafford club must resolve its ownership disputes as soon as possible in order to establish a clear course of action as the summer transfer market is now open.
Erik ten Hag, the manager of Manchester United, wants to improve his team so that it can contend for a trophy next season, but if a takeover is successful, he won't be able to start making big purchases.
The Red Devils' spending on transfers, wages, and coaches' and agents' fees is limited to no more than 90% of their total income due to financial constraints.
Last summer, they spent over £200 million, and early this year, finances made public revealed over £300 million in unpaid transfer costs.
As a result, their budget for this summer is more dependent on player sales than the takeover.
The fans are eagerly anticipating good news after hearing that a preferred bidder would be named this week. A takeover will be helpful.