Qatar's Sheikh Jassim holds key advantage over Sir Jim Ratcliffe in race to buy Man Utd as "life-long fan" claim made

Sheikh Jassim Bin Hamad Al Thani is said to have a key advantage in the race to buy Manchester United, after it was revealed that he is a "life-long Manchester United fan".

The Qatari banker launched an official bid to buy the club on Friday ahead of Saturday's 'soft 10pm deadline'.

He confirmed the news in an official statement which read: "Sheikh Jassim Bin Hamad Al Thani today confirmed his submission of a bid of 100 per cent of Manchester United Football Club.

"The bid will be completely debt free via Sheikh Jassim's Nine Two Foundation, which will look to invest in the football teams, the training centre, the stadium and wider infrastructure, the fan experience and the communities the Club supports.

"The vision of the bid is for Manchester United Football Club to be renowned for footballing excellence, and regarded as the greatest football club in the world. More details of the bid will be released, when appropriate, if and when the bid process develops."

Who is Sheikh Jassim?

CBS Journalist Ben Jacobs reports that Sheikh Jassim is a "life-long Manchester United fan" and was also "UK-educated at the Royal Military Academy".

His Nine Two foundation is thought to represent both the class of 92' and the year that he started supporting the Red Devils.

Whilst Ratcliffe admitted that he is also boyhood fan, reports have emerged that he is a season ticket holder at Premier League rivals Chelsea, turning fans against him.

Ratcliffe told the BBC last year: “When I was living in London for many years, I would go and watch Chelsea play. It was quite difficult to go and watch [Manchester United], so I have split loyalties.

"I have a house in Chelsea, I've had a Chelsea season ticket for many years.”

Ratcliffe launches bid

Ratcliffe, who also owns French side Nice, was reported to have submitted a bid through his company INEOS yesterday.

Journalist Fabrizio Romano tweeted: "After Sheikh Al Thani, also INEOS bid for Manchester United has been submitted tonight."

Although Ratcliffe is thought to need to borrow money in order to buy United, leaving supporters worried that this will plunge the club into further debt.

However, the 70-year-old has stated that his company will assume all debts, not Manchester United.