Manchester United fans are still patiently waiting for a formal update on the proposed sale of the club.
Supporters have been constantly checking their news feeds for an update from the Glazer family, who started the process seven months ago. Patience is now wearing thin after weeks of little movement.
Earlier this week a Reuters report suggested that Qatari banker Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani was 'negotiating exclusivity' with the Glazer family, just over a week after lodging a new and improved offer. The Qatari wants to secure full control of the club, whereas his main rival, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, wants a majority stake.
That Reuters report was quickly disputed by other reputable outlets but share prices in the club rocketed regardless, as did excitement levels in some corners of United's fanbase. However, the situation is still no closer to being finalised and United are remaining silent on the whole saga.
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Here are the latest takeover rumours on Saturday evening:
Sir Jim Ratcliffe bid 'revealed'
The Times reports that Sir Jim Ratcliffe is in fact winning the takeover race, despite speculation suggesting Sheikh Jassim is the frontrunner. It says the INEOS billionaire has submitted a bid worth close to £6billion, the valuation the Glazers are supposedly after.
It adds that the Glazers are 'close' to announcing a new bidder. Earlier this week, reports claimed that Sheikh Jassim's party were negotiating for exclusivity.
Takeover impact on De Gea deal
United's hands may be tied when it comes to keeping David de Gea this summer, depending on how the takeover race ends. Erik ten Hag is apparently set to be given £120m this summer, although this could increase by £50m if Sheikh Jassim wins the race, the Daily Mail says.
And the Express now moots that if that £50m does not come the way of Ten Hag, then he may be forced to find a compromise with De Gea about a new contract.
It says that with United needing a striker and a midfielder, £120m on its own may not be enough to find a suitable replacement for De Gea.
This comes amid a bleak picture for the Spaniard, who could leave Old Trafford this summer after negotiations over a reduced-wage renewal slowed.
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