While Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani is not expected to be at Old Trafford this week, that has not prevented plenty of speculation about the Qatari banker's bid from emerging.
Instead, representatives from the Nine Two Foundation and Bank of America will be in Manchester on Al Thani's behalf, reportedly on Friday. Sir Jim Ratcliffe's representatives are also due to meet The Raine Group before the end of this week for presentations as the process continues.
The American hedge fund Elliott Management, a financing option for other bidders, were in Manchester a week ago for their meetings. Here are the latest takeover headlines.
