Manchester United takeover progress is expected to be made ‘by April or May’ if ‘sources’ are to be believed, according to CBS reporter Ben Jacobs.
The Lowdown: Glazers out protests
The Glazers have had a rocky relationship with United supporters over the years, and after yet another bout of protest banners on match-days throughout 2022, the owners ended up putting the Premier League club up for sale in November.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe is currently the leading candidate to take over after admitting that he is now in negotiations to complete the deal, and a further update has emerged regarding when big developments are to be anticipated.
The Latest: Jacobs’ comments
Speaking to GiveMeSport, Jacobs suggested that the Red Devils’ focus on carrying out the takeover explains exactly why they haven’t been hugely active in the winter market.
“The expectation from sources is that if it proves to be a full takeover, which is what the Glazers have always leaned towards, then by April or May, significant progress may well have been made.
“That informs you why Manchester United are having a quiet January transfer window so far.”
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The Verdict: Start of a new era?
The Glazers have rightly felt the brunt from supporters having spent more than £1billion to service the £500m debt created by their takeover, so letting someone else steady the ship is completely the correct decision.
The final years of their ownership have been truly horrific for a club of this stature, with no serious title challenge mounted in nearly a decade.
Cristiano Ronaldo even gave them huge criticism in the interview that saw his contract with the club terminated, and should Ratcliffe be the man to take the helm, he’s expected to pay approximately £5billion, highlighting his wealth and giving supporters reason for excitement.
Erik Ten Hag will likely be financially backed a lot more in transfer windows - Ratcliffe is a United fan and will surely be more passionate about success - and as he starts to build his long-term project, the 70-year-old businessman’s investment could mark the start of an exciting new chapter on and off the field at Old Trafford.