Erik ten Hag gives Sir Jim Ratcliffe update with Ineos owner at Carrington for Man Utd takeover talks

Erik ten Hag has revealed he met Sir Jim Ratcliffe on Friday with the potential new owner at Carrington as Britain’s richest man discussed a possible Manchester United takeover.

The Ineos lead shareholder was filmed at Old Trafford and then travelled to the training ground to hold talks about possibly completing a purchase of the club from the Glazers. Ratcliffe was joined by Ineos co-owners Andy Currie and John Reece, plus Ineos Sport chiefs Rob Nevin and Jean Claude Blanc, and director of sport Sir Dave Brailsford.

It follows Thursday’s Qatari delegation also attending meetings at Old Trafford and Carrington, although Sheikh Jassim Bin Hamad Al Thani wasn’t present as his representatives met the Raine Group. The meetings consist of a detailed breakdown of the club’s finances and commercial operations.

But speaking on Friday ahead of the FA Cup clash against Fulham, Ten Hag revealed he briefly met Ratcliffe at the club’s training ground.

“I just met them and shook hands but I am focused on the game,” he said. “We play a big game on Sunday and all our focus is on that. Others in the club are dealing with potential investors. My job is focus on the game so let’s talk about the game Fulham, it is a big tie so let’s get ready for that.”

It comes as reports suggest potential buyers have just a week to submit a second bid for the club, with Racliffe and Sheikh Jassim the ony two confirmed bid yet, although it has been reported that other unnamed offers have been made.

Ten Hag was also asked about United drawing six-time winners Sevilla in the next round of the Europa League, and the Dutchman said it will be a difficult draw for his side. “Back to Sevilla and, as you say, a very good record - we have to be aware of it.

“It is going to be tough, they are very experienced in the Europa League, won it so many times, so I don’t know the team in detail but for me the most important is football and I don’t look forward to Seville.

“First we have the international break and then three Premier League games so there is much time to focus on that, so definitely all the opponents are coming to this stage of Europa League they are strong and you have to play your best football if you want to go through.”