Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s proposed investment of £1.5 billion in Manchester United is expected to face further delays, according to sources. Despite the potential confirmation of the deal on the financial markets in the coming days, the finalization is not expected until after the January transfer window. Ratcliffe, along with his INEOS group, has been in extensive discussions with United’s owners, the Glazer family, since October, with the intention of gaining full control of football operations at the club.
Sources have revealed that the concluding stages of the negotiations have been delayed due to the review of legal details on both sides, further prolonging the process before contracts can be signed. Although an announcement to the New York Stock Exchange may occur before the end of the year, the holiday season may impede the completion of this stage. Additionally, factors such as the ratification process by the Premier League and the Christmas and New Year period could contribute to the delay, potentially resulting in Manchester United entering the final transfer window under Glazer ownership next month.
While Ratcliffe’s team is already working on plans to revamp United’s football structure, sources suggest that it may take between 4-6 weeks for the Premier League to approve the change in ownership model. As a result, ratification may not commence until the first week of January due to the festive period. Consequently, United is facing the prospect of limited activity in the upcoming transfer window. United’s chief operating officer, Colette Roche, indicated this week that the club’s financial restrictions would restrict significant additions to Erik ten Hag’s squad next month. Although loan moves might be viable, significant incoming transfers are unlikely, even if an agreement is reached to offload Jadon Sancho, who has not featured in the first team since September due to a dispute with Ten Hag.
Implications of the Delay
The delayed investment poses several implications for Manchester United. Firstly, it prolongs the period of uncertainty surrounding the club’s ownership, causing potential disruption and instability. Secondly, the delay restricts the opportunity to strengthen the squad during the January transfer window, which could impact United’s performance in the remainder of the season. Furthermore, the financial restrictions imposed by the Glazer ownership may hinder United’s ability to compete for top-tier players in the transfer market, limiting their chances of success.
The anticipated £1.5 billion investment from Sir Jim Ratcliffe in Manchester United is currently facing significant delays, potentially extending the finalization of the deal beyond the January transfer window. While talks between Ratcliffe’s INEOS group and the Glazer family are in their final stages, legal reviews and the ratification process by the Premier League are contributing to the delay. Manchester United may have to navigate the upcoming transfer window under Glazer ownership, with limited financial resources to make significant additions to their squad. The delay not only prolongs the uncertainty surrounding the club’s ownership but also poses challenges in terms of squad strengthening and competing for top-tier players.
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