A journalist has revealed the views of Manchester United co-chairman Avram Glazer, as per sources, on the fan protests against the Glazer ownership at Old Trafford.
The Glazer family have owned United since 2005, and have come under heavy criticism throughout that time due to their lack of investment in facilities, lack of engagement with supporters and the high amount of debt placed on the club.
They were also condemned for involving United in initial plans for a European Super League in 2021. Joel Glazer, the club's co-chairman, was named as one of four vice-chairmen of the project before it collapsed.
In November, the Glazers announced that the club's board was seeking 'strategic alternatives' for United, which could include a full or partial sale.
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There have two public bidders that have expressed their intention of acquiring a full or majority stake in the club.
Qatar Islamic Bank (QIB) chairman Sheikh Jassim, through his Nine Two foundation, wants a full takeover, while boyhood United fan Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos want to acquire the majority stake held by the six members of the Glazer family.
Meanwhile, The Telegraph reported on Wednesday that eight groups are involved in the process, with some groups remaining anonymous.
Glazer reactions to fan protests revealed
Although all six family members are on the club's board, it is Avram and Joel Glazer who are most involved with United, as executive co-chairmen.
Avram travelled to Wembley earlier this month to watch United defeat Newcastle 2-0 in the Carabao Cup final. It was the first time any member of the family had watched the side in person since August.
Now, journalist Ben Jacobs has revealed what sources have indicated about Avram's feelings regarding fan protests, which were publicised on social media prior to the game and resulted in a number of anti-Glazer chants and banners at Wembley.
Taking to Twitter, he explained: "Still told by sources the Glazers haven't yet determined a unified position [on a sale] but that this will happen sooner rather than later.
"They kept quite distant from the process until the indicative offers arrived. This was intentional, with a lot of trust placed in Joe Ravitch [co-founder and partner of merchant bank Raine Group, who are overseeing the process].
"Avram Glazer was expecting protests at the League Cup Final so not particularly surprised by the chants and banners, but sources say he felt it important to attend.
"He is well aware the fanbase want a full sale."
Topics: Manchester United, Premier League, Carabao Cup, Wembley Stadium
Ryan Smart