Manchester United are closing in on announcing their next owner as the long battle between Sheikh Jassim and Jim Ratcliffe reaches a dramatic conclusion. After months of offers, deadlines and waiting, the Glazers are said to have made their choice.
Having announced that they were willing to welcome offers for the club, described as 'exploring strategic alternatives' there were quickly two favourites for the takeover. Qatari banker Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani - Sheikh Jassim - and INEOS billionaire Ratcliffe.
The latter has been keen on buying an English club for years after taking over Nice and the Team Sky cycling team. He also made a late attempt to hijack the Todd Boehly-Clearlake Capital takeover of Chelsea.