The Glazer family are expected to demand a minimum of £5bn if they decide to spark the biggest auction in world football by proceeding with a full sale of Manchester United.
i understands the Glazer family will instruct investment bankers to start a process that would seek outside investment, the sale of a stake in the club or even a full sale of arguably the most high-profile football team on the planet.
The story was first reported by Sky News and is understood to be an accurate reflection of the state of play – which will give supporters hope that the Glazers are preparing to relinquish control after 17 years marked by fan protests and on-field decline.
Manchester United offered no comment on the reports on Tuesday night but an announcement is expected to come soon.
The news capped a day of high intrigue at Old Trafford in which the club also agreed a mutual termination of Cristiano Ronaldo’s contract. A potential Glazer family sale of the club would have far-reaching ramifications for both United, the Premier League and even rivals Liverpool – who are also up for sale.
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Sources believe United have moved in part because Liverpool’s owners Fenway Sports Group are also seeking investment or a sale.
The belief is that many of the consortia able to draw on the sort of funds that would enable a purchase of the Reds would also be interested in a possible Manchester United buy out.
Market insiders believe that American consortia remain the most likely buyers of Liverpool and a prestige club like Manchester United are likely to draw similar interest. Jim Ratcliffe, the UK’s richest person, is on the record as being interested in a possible purchase if the Glazers are open to selling and all eyes will now be trained on him.
The price, however, would be a record for a football club and any investors would need deep pockets. Manchester United are in desperate need of investment on and off-the-field with a redevelopment of Old Trafford in the offing.
Football business expert Kieran Maguire told i: “Realistically they would be looking for £5bn including the existing debt. United have a bigger fanbase and commercial clout than Chelsea and greater forward looking opportunities.”
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