Sir Jim Ratcliffe's bid to buy Manchester United appears to have suffered another blow, with the Qatari group, led by Sheikh Jassim reported to be growing increasingly confident of securing a deal.
The takeover is yet to be resolved despite a series of deadlines, set by the Raine Group, who are overseeing the sale of the club on behalf of the Glazer Family. However, the Qatari Group are now believed to be growing in belief that a deal can be secured to acquire one of the world's biggest clubs.
It has been eight months since the process began, with the first deadline for bids having been in February. Delays have followed this, with both leading bidders hoping to reach the Glazer's £6 billion asking price, with complications now emerging regarding the concerns of those who hold a minority stake in the club.