British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe has confirmed his desire to buy Manchester United from the Glazer family.
Reports emerged on Wednesday that the Glazers were seeking new investment and were prepared to sell a minority stake in the Red Devils, amid near-constant protests against their ownership from disgruntled United fans.
Now, a spokesperson for Ratcliffe has confirmed to The Times that the lifelong United fan, who failed with a bid to buy Chelsea earlier this summer, is prepared to invest with a view to complete ownership of the club.
“If the club is for sale, Jim is definitely a potential buyer,” a statement read.
The spokesperson added: “If something like this was possible, we would be interested in talking with a view to long-term ownership.
“This is not about the money that has been spent or not spent. Jim is looking at what can be done now and, knowing how important the club is to the city, it feels like the time is right for a reset.”
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Just what the Glazers are prepared to offer is unclear. Reports have conflicted, with Bloomberg claiming the American family are not looking to sell the club, which could be valued at over £5bn, outright.
In April, Ratcliffe, who currently owns Ligue 1 side Nice, submitted a bid to buy Chelsea worth £4.25bn, only to be knocked back as his offer came after the well-publicised deadline for buyers.
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