The story of Manchester United 's prospective takeover has taken yet another twist, with giant American investor Carlyle named as "serious" bidders.
Earlier this week, owners the Glazer family - who put United on the market last November - launched a surprise third round of bidding in an effort to see their £6billion asking price met or gain minority investment. Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani remain the frontrunners to buy United outright after launching two previous offers and holding in-depth talks with club officials.
Now, though, Carlyle are said to be in the ring, with the next deadline for offers set for April 28. The investment group boasts assets of more than $370billion (£298bn), ranking them among the world's largest private equity firms.
