David Beckham is reportedly willing to consider backing a prospective Manchester United owner who is bidding to take over the club.
The global icon’s stature, wealth and long association with the club would be attractive to potential bidders who wish to launch an offer for the Reds. On Tuesday, The Glazers confirmed that they are exploring the possible sale of United after a 17-year reign.
Their off-field running of the club coupled with on-field woes in recent years have led to increased calls from supporters for the family to sell up, with anti-owner protests increasing in frequency. Any person looking to take control of United would likely be well served by Beckham’s backing.
READ MORE: Sir Jim Ratcliffe to bid for Manchester United after Glazers put club up for sale
The Financial Times reports that the former Old Trafford midfielder is open to entering discussions with those who are serious about a possible takeover, with the carrot of his financial and public support being offered in return.
It adds that while Beckham himself would not be able to afford to buy the club outright himself, he could be willing to become part of an “investment consortium”. Beckham - co-owner of MLS club Inter Miami CF - is said to have been approached by several interested parties in the past but talks had never progressed.
This comes hours after reports outlined that Sir Jim Ratcliffe is set to make a bid for United, albeit is wary of not overpaying. The Glazers reportedly wish to hold out for around £5billion, following their £790million purchase in 2005.
The Manchester Evening News exclusively revealed that former Goldman Sachs boss Lord Jim O’Neill has an interest in purchasing the club if demands are lowered.
The recent Financial Times report now claims that potential buyers could include sports private equity duo Josh Harris and David Blitzer of Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, whose business portfolio includes basketball giants the Philadelphia 76ers and Ice Hockey franchise New Jersey Devils.
It also moots Boston Celtics co-owner Stephen Pagliuca and NBA chief governor Larry Tanenbaum - who were both listed as interested parties in Chelsea earlier this year - could also be brought in.
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