12 February 2023 , 00:00
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The Glazer family, Manchester United's owners, are torn on what price to expect for the club as they continue their search for a buyer in concerning news for potential bidder Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
After nearly two decades of ownership from the American businessmen, United are thought to be up for sale but it remains unclear for what price. New York-based investment bank, The Raine Group, are overseeing a potential sale which has sparked fresh speculation over Ratcliffe's interest.
However, French outlet Foot Mercato have claimed that one of Britain's richest men faces a significant obstacle in his pursuit to buy the Red Devils. The owner of Ligue 1 outfit Nice is rumoured to have made it clear he won't be forking out more than £4billion to secure the Premier League giants.
The Times have claimed that those at the top of the United hierarchy are undecided about whether or not to sell should they miss out on their desired price.
Ratcliffe is reportedly unconvinced over whether the Glazers' are serious about parting ways with United as part of a full-scale sale of the club.
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The current United owners have imposed a soft deadline of February 17 for any bidders to register their interest, which includes the rumoured Qatari and Saudi Arabian buyers.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe wants to buy Manchester United but will not bid more than £4billion (VALERY HACHE/AFP via Getty Images)HAVE YOUR SAY! Will Sir Jim Ratcliffe eventually buy Manchester United? Comment below
A major obstacle the Glazers' face comes in the form of Chelsea's recent sale. The Blues were sold to Todd Boehly for a fee of £2.5bn in the summer, with a further £1.75bn committed to future investment.
The Glazers are looking for significantly more than that, but many within the game feel their target figure of £6bn is particularly optimistic. Ratcliffe is certainly of that mindset, with the 70-year-old having told bid associates Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan he is unwilling to go above £4bn.
Should the Glazers stand firm and hold out for the £6bn, it would only benefit the Qatari investors currently circling. If the Americans feel that Qatari bidders aren't serious in their interest, they could have to drop their asking price.
While discussing the fact that United also have debts north of £500m and owe £300m in transfer fees, club legend Gary Neville recently gave his views on the latest rumours surrounding a potential takeover.
"Beyond the Glazers leaving, I don't think United can afford to be with another investment fund where they're expecting a return on the money.
"That's what worries me about private equity coming into football. People are still looking for a return on their money and a return on their investment. Manchester United need a debt-free football club with someone who is willing to put money into it."