Man Utd takeover twist as David Ornstein provides ‘new movement’ update amid ‘on the brink’ claim

Manchester United’s potential takeover could have taken a long-awaited step forward after one insider revealed there had been some progress over a deal.

Just under a year has passed since the Glazer family revealed they were ‘commencing a process to explore strategic alternatives for the club’ and that brought confirmation external investment and a full sale of the 13-time Premier League champions would be under consideration.

Speaking at the time, a joint statement from Avram and Joel Glazer said: "We will evaluate all options to ensure that we best serve our fans and that Manchester United maximizes the significant growth opportunities available to the Club today and in the future. Throughout this process we will remain fully focused on serving the best interests of our fans, shareholders, and various stakeholders.”

INEOS founder and lifelong United supporter Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Qatari banker Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani are long been considered as the two frontrunners to secure a deal that would bring an end to the Glazers’ controversial ownership at Old Trafford - although there have been some suggestions Ratcliffe would also consider the purchase of a minority stake in the club in a bid to hurry up the process.

However, one recent report has suggested some progress has been made in recent weeks.

The Athletic’s David Ornstein was asked about the progress of the deal in a Q&A session earlier this week and he revealed he had been ‘assured there has been movement’.

He said: “We’re getting question after question on this [the potential Manchester United takeover]. I’m assured there has been movement and, contrary to report that it is going the way of Sheikh Jassim, I keep hearing that INEOS taking a minority stake and building from there remains more likely.

“That said, I was previously being told it’s going to Sheikh Jassim! This shows either the momentum keeps swinging or that none of us really know. Perhaps even the Glazers don’t know.”

The report comes after Qatari outlet Alkass TV Sports had reported earlier this week Sheikh Jassim was on the brink of completing his proposed takeover of the club, with Ratcliffe previously said to be out of the running.