Takeovers never seem to happen easily. Just over 12 months ago Chelsea were able to finally get closure on an extended process following Roman Abramovich's decision to sell the Blues after two decades in charge amid club sanctions.
So everyone connected to Chelsea will recognise the frustrations of a drawn out process of interested partners and Raine Group, much like Manchester United are experiencing at the moment. The Red Devils however, finally appear close to coming to the end of the process.
Qatari banker Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani - Sheikh Jassim - and INEOS billionaire Ratcliffe, who also made a late attempt to hijack the Todd Boehly-Clearlake Capital takeover of Chelsea, have been the primary contenders.
