Sky Sports News reporter drops Man Utd takeover update that could worry fans

Sky Sports reports Kaveh Solhekol has provided an update on Manchester United's takeover situation that could worry supporters.

It was in November 2022 when the Glazers put United up for sale, stating they would "explore strategic alternatives for the club".

British businessman Jim Ratcliffe of INEOS and Sheikh Jassim, the third son of former Qatari prime minister Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber al-Thani, have been the two prolific bidders.

Jassim has made a total of five bids for the 13-time Premier League champions and his latest offer, submitted on June 7, is to acquire 100 per cent of the club.

It was reported this week that the Qatari was closing in on a purchase of United, which could be completed by the middle of October.

The plan for the takeover, which would remove existing debts, also includes renovating both Old Trafford and the training facilities at Carrington, as well as making significant funds available to invest in the first-team, women's team and academy.

However, Sky Sports, citing sources closes to the Qataris, say they believe proceedings have stalled and there are concerns that the Glazers are not actually willing to sell the club after all.

The Glazer family purchased United in a £800 million takeover back in 2005 and the club's debt stands at £725 million a according to the latest accounts.

United fans have frequently protested against their American owners on many an occasion and are advocating for a full sale.

Ratcliffe's proposal, from May 16, is to buy 69 per cent of the club and respected journalists David Ornstein and Mike Keegan have both said he is not out of the race just yet.

Solhekol states that senior figures at United have been left in the dark over the state of affairs, though they want happenings to be wrapped up quickly and there is support for the Qatari bid.