After a difficult ending to the season on the pitch for Manchester United, attention has swiftly turned to the club’s ownership with the Glazer family potentially wrangling to remain at the helm. 

It comes amidst reports from the Financial Times that a proposal from INEOS Chief Jim Ratcliffe could see all six members of the Glazer family continue in a boardroom position at the club. 

Furthermore, complexities involving the bid from the British businessman are central as to why the takeover process has been elongated significantly – as the Glazers eye a dwindling number of potential candidates. 

Whereas the bid from Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani would see the Qatari take full control of the club, Ratcliffe has seemingly become a more favourable avenue for Avram and Joel Glazer, who are much more reluctant to sell their shares than other siblings

In a recent list by Forbes, Manchester United was ranked as the second most valuable club in the world, only behind Real Madrid. Additionally, with the club qualifying for the Champions League again this season and seemingly finding some form of stability on the pitch, the Glazers will be looking at that value increasing. 

The process and its complexities have reportedly led to hesitancy from Qatar, with their most recent bid edging towards, but falling just short of the Glazer’s £6bn valuation of the club. 

Avram Glazer was in attendance for United’s FA Cup Final defeat on Saturday, however, turned down the opportunity to answer questions on the takeover process, as fans become increasingly frustrated with a lack of clarity in the steps being taken. 

Nonetheless, progression within the club’s next steps are likely coming soon – with the need for stability prior to the Summer transfer window, in order to best prepare for next season, being urged by many quarters. 

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