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Topics: Manchester United, Premier League, Football
Joe Adams
The Qatari group fronted by Sheikh Jassim could make a surprise fourth bid to buy Manchester United, according to the latest reports.
The Raine Group, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe have emerged as the favourite to take over the club after allegedly submitting the higher offer - which could reach as much as £6 billion.
Indeed, the Glazers and Ratcliffe are now 'willing to enter final talks with Ratcliffe and his team at Ineos to thrash out the world-record deal', according to The Times.
It is widely thought that Ratcliffe's willingness to allow Joel and Avram Glazer to retain a 20% stake in the club has swung the balance in the Englishman's favour.
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Meanwhile, the Qatari's third bid was believed to be worth less than £5 billion, damaging their hopes of a takeover.
However, there may be a late twist in the tale, with reports suggesting Sheikh Jassim could return with another offer.
The Times report that sources close to the Qataris believe that they could 'respond with an 11th-hour bid that forces the Glazers to reconsider.'
Sheikh Jassim's prospective plans are considered a favourite among a great deal of supporters who are keen to see the Glazers lose all power.
According to Sky News, however, Ratcliffe’s bid includes clauses that would see him take full control at Old Trafford after just three years.
It remains to be seen whether the Qataris will make one more push to buy United, or whether Ratcliffe has done enough.
Based on current evidence, it would appear the Glazers long-winded sale is coming to an end at the hands of Ratcliffe. But a last-minute bid cannot be ruled out.
On the pitch, United are desperately fighting to secure Champions League football after consecutive defeats to Brighton and West Ham in the Premier League.
They face Wolves next at Old Trafford as Erik ten Hag aims to steer them back to winning ways.