Journalist claims Man Utd takeover 'clue' is a 'red herring' as Qatari stance made clear

An image of Manchester United co-owner Avram Glazer leaving a hotel owned by Sheikh Jassim's father is a 'red herring' in regards to a takeover of the club, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.

Sheikh Jassim is one of the leading candidates to take control of United from the Glazer family, having reportedly submitted a world-record bid through his Nine Two Foundation to complete a full takeover.

His main rival is the joint proposal of Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos, which The Independent claim technically values the club at a higher value.

The Daily Mirror published a story on Monday which showed images of Avram Glazer leaving Claridge's Hotel in London. The hotel is owned by Sheikh Jassim's father, Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani, with the report adding that he owns the Maybourne Hotel Group, the parent company of Claridge's.

Those images only added to speculation surrounding the United takeover process and its potential next development.

However, Jacobs has clarified the images via his understanding.

Journalist gives Man Utd takeover update

Taking to Twitter, Jacobs states his understanding that the images of Glazer at Claridge's Hotel are a 'red herring', and that both the Nine Two Foundation and Ratcliffe's camp have held talks with US merchant bank Raine Group, who are leading sale negotiations.

Furthermore, he adds that 'back and forth' between the interested bidders and the Glazers is expected to take place this week.

Jacobs wrote: "Understand Avram Glazer being at Claridge's is a red herring. Important verbal back and forth with both Nine Two Foundation and Sir Jim Ratcliffe expected this week.

"Both parties are now talking to Raine Group. Should Qatar increase their final offer it is not expected to be disclosed. Talks are more fluid and the formal offer deadlines are gone. Nine Two Foundation remain confident they are not out of the race.

"Sir Jim Ratcliffe is "cautiously optimistic". But until a preferred bidder is named, and with neither group in an exclusive period, there is plenty of competition."