Manchester United will reportedly have their Old Trafford stadium expanded to a 90,000 capacity if Sir Jim Ratcliffe completes a deal to buy 25 per cent of the club. The billionaire looks set to come out with a stake in the Red Devils following months of negotiations which have seen Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani withdraw from the bidding process.
According to The Times, Ratcliffe could be told on Thursday whether the United board have approved his offer for a quarter of the club’s A and B shares in exchange for up to £1.3 billion. While the deal is only for a minority stake in the north west giants, Ratcliffe’s company INEOS would take over the football side of the business from the Glazers.
INEOS are hoping that major changes in performance structure and personnel will reassure fans who want the Glazers to leave the club for good. A significant part of the negotiations has focused on the need to upgrade and potentially expand Old Trafford, with the 74,310-capacity ground requiring modernisation as a matter of urgency. INEOS’ involvement should accelerate those plans, with the group setting funds aside for investment in the stadium.
Ratcliffe’s offer is expected to be the first phase of a full-scale takeover. And the businessman’s willingness to work with the Glazers and allow them to retain a stake has been significant.
After Sheikh Jassim withdrew his bid, the Manchester United Supporters’ Trust called on the Glazer family to “make their position clear.” And a statement from the group read: “We hope this news accelerates that process rather than delays it. Based on the last 11 months, no one can be quite sure.”
Meanwhile, Greater Manchester Police have said they intend to work with the club when United take on Copenhagen in the Champions League in their next home match as fans who oppose the continued involvement of the Glazer family are expected to protest.
“GMP will be assisting Manchester United outside Old Trafford during the match with Copenhagen,” explained chief superintendent Collette Rose, head of policing for Trafford. “Officers will be highly visible to maintain safety while facilitating the right to peaceful protest.
“GMP has significant experience in policing public demonstrations and live events, and officers liaise with local football clubs as well as partner agencies on a regular basis to ensure that football fixtures pass with as little disruption as possible so that everyone can enjoy the game.”
