Manchester United transfer news LIVE plus takeover latest as US firm ‘joins’ race and Leicester build-up
Manchester United fans soon heard of a US company’s reported interest after INEOS confirmed Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s takeover bid at midday yesterday.
Elliott Investment Management has been linked to entering the race, but only to fund a bid rather than a full-on takeover.
The Manchester Evening News understands that any bids submitted at this stage are indicative while the next stage will allow interested parties to view financial figures.
After that, bidders must submit their final bids. United, meanwhile, welcome Leicester and look to close the gap on second-placed Manchester City to three points.
United have lost just one of their last 18 games and have not lost in the Premier League at home since losing to Brighton on the opening day. Casemiro is serving the final of his three-game suspension against the Foxes.
TODAY’S GREAT TALKING POINT: Who would you like to see United take over?? Join us here.
Keep an eye on the latest news, views and transfer rumors with our dedicated blog below:
07:49Kyle Newbould
Happy Birthday to Pat Crerand!
With 401 appearances for United between 1963 and 1971, yielding two First Division titles, an FA Cup and a European Cup, it would be fair to say that Pat Crerand is an M16 legend.
Happy 84th Birthday!
07:22Kyle Newbould
David De Gea contract
United are ready to offer David De Gea £250,000-a-week to keep the keeper at Old Trafford beyond his current contract.
De Gea’s contract is expected to expire in the summer but despite speculation about his departure, talks have been going on for some time over new terms with both parties confident of a solution.
United are adamant they can’t match the Spaniard’s current £375,000-a-week deal but will be prepared to keep base pay high while the pair seek a compromise.
Isaac Johnson
Statement confirming Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s takeover bid
Ineos’ full statement reads:
“We can confirm that Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS have submitted an offer for a majority stake in Manchester United Football Club.
“We would view our role as long-term stewards of Manchester United on behalf of the fans and the wider community.
“We are ambitious and very competitive and we would love to invest in Manchester United to make them the number one club in the world again. We also recognize that football leadership in this country is at a crossroads.
“We want to help drive this next chapter and deepen the culture of English football by making the club a beacon for a modern, progressive, fan-centred approach to ownership.
“We want a Manchester United that is steeped in its proud history and roots in the North West of England, that takes Manchester back to Manchester United and has a clear focus on winning the Champions League.”
Read more about the story here >>>
Isaac Johnson
Newcastle’s Pope is suspended for the League Cup final against United
First-choice Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope is suspended for next Sunday’s League Cup final against United after his red card against Liverpool last night.
He received his marching orders after handling outside the box in the first half, meaning Martin Dubravka came on to guard the net.
The latter is tied for the Wembley trip in the cup, meaning Eddie Howe faces a goalkeeping headache ahead of next weekend’s showdown.
Read more here >>>
Isaac Johnson
US firm enters United takeover race
US hedge fund firm Elliott Investment Management is reportedly the latest company to join the Manchester United takeover race.
However, the company only wants to finance an offer and is not interested in a complete takeover itself.
Elliott Investment Management used to own AC Milan and is said to have assets worth up to £46bn.
Isaac Johnson
Welcome
Stay with us throughout the day for Manchester United updates.