Sheikh Jassim-led consortium makes final decision on Manchester United takeover

United’s sale process enters its 11th month as one of the major bidders withdraw their offer.

After months of speculation and intense negotiations, the Qatari consortium led by Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani has reportedly withdrawn from the race to purchase Manchester United.

The move marks a significant turn of events in the ongoing saga of Manchester United’s potential takeover, which began when the Glazer family announced their intentions to explore strategic alternatives for the club in November 2022.

Both Sheikh Jassim and British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe emerged as leading contenders to acquire the renowned football club, each submitting multiple offers that reportedly valued Manchester United at over £5 billion. However, negotiations appear to have hit an impasse, with Sheikh Jassim’s consortium expressing concerns about the Glazers’ valuation, deeming it unrealistic.

As a result, Sheikh Jassim may now be setting his sights on a new target, with reports suggesting that he is considering an investment in Serie A giants Inter Milan.

The Italian publication Tuttomercatoweb has hinted at his interest in the club, which is currently owned by Steven Zhang, the youngest chairman in Inter’s history. Questions have arisen about Zhang’s future at Inter, especially with a looming loan repayment deadline in May 2024. However, negotiations with Sheikh Jassim have stalled due to a significant disparity in valuation, with Zhang’s price tag reportedly set at €1.2 billion (£1 billion).

While the future of Manchester United’s ownership remains uncertain, club CEO Richard Arnold provided a brief update during the Fans’ Forum, indicating that the Glazers are still in control. As the club’s sale process enters its 11th month, the football world eagerly awaits the final decision on the fate of one of the sport’s most iconic teams.