Man Utd takeover news: Glazer ‘pause’ claims denied as owners in talks with ‘multiple parties’

The Manchester United takeover process remains ongoing, with the Glazers still in talks with ‘multiple parties’, according to reports.

The prospect of United being bought over dominated the news agenda in the spring and early summer, but in July reports surrounding the saga dropped markedly, with repeated reports that the Glazer family planned to stall proceedings.

Just this week, the i reported the takeover process had been ‘effectively paused’, with the two main bidders - Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani and Sir Jim Ratcliffe. The outlet added there has been no guidance or communication from the United hierarchy in recent months, with the Glazers believing United’s value will go up in a few years due to ‘new TV deals being negotiated, the growth of the game in the US [and] the new Champions League format.’

Despite that, journalist Ben Jacobs tweeted to say that the takeover plans have not paused but added that ‘groups say they’re waiting for further communication and ready if chosen’.

Meanwhile, the Daily Mail reported that discussions are continuing with a number of groups’ surrounding either a full or partial sale. Sheikh Jassim remains confident that his bid will win, the Mail add, although there remains a chance the Glazers will sell a small stake in the club to fund the redevelopment of United’s stadium and training ground.

The takeover process, it’s claimed, has not impacted Erik ten Hag’s transfer plans, which were determined by Financial Fair Play regulations, while news that Adidas agreed a 10-year extension on their kit deal with United - worth a minimum of £900m - is also reportedly of little consequence in terms of the takeover negotiations.

The lack of news and updates has also frustrated the club’s former players, with Rio Ferdinand calling for greater ‘clarity’ from United’s owners on the takeover process.

“The uncertainty surrounding the ownership isn't good for the club,” he told talkSPORT. “It isn't good for the fanbase at all and I think that needs sorting out. I think new owners right now - given the way the fanbase is at the moment - is needed. 

“I just think clarity right now [is important]. A lot of the time we've asked for transparency from the owners and clarity for the direction the club is going in. In terms of infrastructure, investment etc. it would be nice but that hasn't been forthcoming and that's been disappointing from my standpoint.”