Manchester United are making progress in the transfer market but the protracted takeover process is showing little sign of moving forward quickly.
Neither Sir Jim Ratcliffe nor Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani are any closer to being granted exclusivity and ultimately taking over at United, following months of snail-pace negotiations. Both sides are confident that have what it takes to convince the Glazers they are the best party.
But the lack of clarity regarding a decision is causing frustration among fans and those inside the club, particularly at a time when Premier League rivals are strengthening so aggressively in the market.
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Here's the latest news on the takeover as of Sunday, July 2.
Ratcliffe's Barcelona bid
Sir Jim Ratcliffe has revealed the advice he gave Barcelona after trying to buy the club as the Manchester United takeover saga rumbles on.
Supporters are still no closer to discovering who will buy United. Ratcliffe's bid and an offer from Qatar remain on the table for the Glazer family, who could decide to remain in power at Old Trafford after all.
Ratcliffe has been trying to buy a major powerhouse in Europe for some time. He owns OGC Nice in France but bid for Chelsea last year when Roman Abramovich was forced to sell.
He's now in the running at Old Trafford and in an extract from his new book, as The Times reveals, he claims he tried to purchase a controlling stake in Barcelona too. He advised Joan Laporta not to cash in their chips on the TV money for short-term gain, known as the 'levers'.
Ratcliffe on Glazers
Sir Jim Ratcliffe has revealed he was charmed by the Glazer Family after meeting to discuss the Manchester United takeover.
Supporters are still no closer to discovering who will buy United. Ratcliffe's bid and an offer from Qatar remain on the table for the American family, who could decide to remain in power at Old Trafford after all.
Several 'deadlines' have passed with very little movement. The future of United remains unclear despite the transfer window opening.
In an extract from his latest book, Ratcliffe has revealed his first impressions of meeting the Glazers when United came on the market. He was 'charmed' by them, as The Times reveals.
