Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand says it might only be a "matter of hours" before Qatari billionaire Sheikh Jassim is announced as the club's next owner.
The Sheikh has been locked in what is widely believed to be a two-horse race to take over at Old Trafford with Failsworth-born billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe, owner of the INEOS petrochemical company, although the Glazers could still end up remaining at the helm with investment from a number of US groups another potential option. With the process having dragged on for seven months now, fans have been craving an update with Erik ten Hag hoping to make moves in the transfer window to help build upon an encouraging first season at the club.
Five rounds of bidding have now taken place, with Sheikh Jassim's self-imposed deadline passing last week. He is now no longer expected to actively engage in discussions with the Glazers and Raine Group, which is handling the sale, as he believes they have had ample time to seek clarification and revision of the offer.
