Apple eyeing Man Utd takeover: Who is Tim Cook? What has been said? Who else has been linked?

The Glazers’ 17-year ownership of Manchester United could be coming to an end soon, following the announcement on Tuesday that the Americans may be willing to sell the club.

In a statement, United said the board are ‘commencing a process to explore strategic alternatives for the club’. “The board will consider all strategic alternatives, including new investment into the club, a sale, or other transactions involving the company,” they added.

Several interested parties have since been linked with a takeover, the most recent of which is technology giants Apple.

Will Apple buy Man Utd?

As reported by the Daily Star, the American multinational company have ‘joined’ the race to buy the Premier League giants. They are said to be interested in snapping up the club for a huge fee of around £5.8billion, with the Glazers ready to accept the highest bid.

Who is Tim Cook and what is his net worth?

Tim Cook is the chief executive of Apple and served under co-founder Steve Jobs as chief operating officer. The 62-year-old also serves on the board of directors at Nike and National Football Foundation (American Football), highlighting his interest in sports.

He is from Alabama and has a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from Auburn University and a Masters in Master of Business Administration from Duke University. Cook appeared on Time Magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world last year and his net worth is estimated to be approximately $1.8billion.

Who else has been linked with Man Utd takeover?

Apple aren’t the only name in the frame to take the keys to Old Trafford. The UK’s richest man, Sir Jim Radcliffe, was linked earlier this year and talk of his interest has again resurfaced in recent days.

Amazon and Facebook have also been mentioned as potential suitors in a report by the Daily Mail. Meanwhile, former United winger David Beckham is ‘open to talks’ according to the Financial Times, although he lacks the funds himself to complete a takeover.

Current Man Utd situation

United have been dominating the headlines this month, first following Cristiano Ronaldo’s explosive interview with Piers Morgan which has resulted in the club cutting ties with the Portugal international, and now with the uncertain ownership situation.

In terms of events on the pitch, Erik ten Hag’s side are fifth in the Premier League table and are three points behind fourth-place Tottenham Hotspur.