Manchester United's takeover process has been littered with frustration among the fanbase and the most recent reports that new owners may not be in place for the transfer window will only increase anger.
The seven-month takeover process has been typified by a week in which conflicting reports have led to confusion, with the final outcome being little tangible development. On Monday, Qatari media suggested Sheikh Jassim's bid was to be successful before backtracking amid denials from the banker's camp.
With the transfer window now open and the likes of Liverpool and Arsenal well into their summer business, the uncertainty regarding a takeover is only heightening the sense of anger that Erik ten Hag's plans will be affected.
Below, MEN Sport have rounded up the key stories from Thursday's developments.
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New owners may not be in place for transfer window
According to a report from the Daily Mail late on Thursday evening, the takeover of United may still not be complete when the 2023/2024 Premier League season kicks off, casting doubt over clarity for the upcoming transfer market.
The Glazers are yet to decide on a preferred bidder, despite reports suggesting Sheikh Jassim had been successful. Even when they do make their decision, it could take another eight to 12 weeks to finalise the 'approval process' and rubber stamp the takeover.
However, the report adds that Erik ten Hag's transfer budget - believed to be around £120million plus whatever is generated from player sales - will not be affected by the complications.
The Dutchman will demand significant investment as he builds a squad fit for a title challenge and Champions League football, and the bureaucracy in finalising a takeover is not expected to affect those plans, although it leaves fans with the unsavoury prospect of kicking off the new season, at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers on August 14, with the Glazers still in charge.
Exclusivity confusion
There was yet more uncertainty amid a report from Reuters that the Glazers were 'negotiating exclusivity' with Sheikh Jassim - a claim that was interpreted as the Qatari banker being granted exclusivity.
That came shortly after confirmation that the Qatari banker's Nine Two Holdings Limited had been certified as a UK company by Companies House, with himself as one of the directors and an address in London.
Amid the excitement of what looked to be a major development, numerous reporters heard from their own sources that there was no progress in deciding on a preferred bidder.
In the fallout, United's share price sky-rocketed as traders anticipated an imminent announcement, peaking at $26.56 before falling slightly again to close at $24.88 come 9pm.
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