Donovan McNabb and the State of Football
Manchester United will reportedly invite formal takeover bids by mid-February after receiving interest from several groups.
The Premier League club has attracted groups from the Middle East, Asia, and the U.S., according to Telegraph Sport, and is expected to inform those interested that it will take bids for total buyouts and minority stakes.
- Saudi and Qatari ministers have previously minimized the potential of a takeover, but other reports don’t rule them out.
- British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe is reportedly interested, but no formal talks have been held. Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton could also join Ratcliffe’s bid.
Manchester United co-owner Avram Glazer reportedly held several informal meetings at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Doha.
The bid deadline appears to be flexible, but the club wants to have a deal by the end of April, per Telegraph Sport.
The Glazers are reportedly looking for an offer of more than $7.2 billion for the team. Forbes last valued Manchester United at $4.6 billion.
The Fans Factor
The Glazers, who also own the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, have been criticized by fans for their management of the team.
“We will be advising any prospective new investors on the value of the fan-engagement processes we have built in recent years and recommending that they continue to be strengthened,” said Richard Arnold, Manchester United’s chief executive.
