24 May 2023 , 21:45
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Leading lights at INEOS have concerns about Sir Jim Ratcliffe's bid to buy Manchester United, according to reports.
Britain's wealthiest man is seemingly in a two-horse race to buy the Premier League giant should the Glazers opt to sell up after what has been a drawn out process that has copped major criticism. Ratcliffe has tabled a hefty bid which could eventually go down as the world record purchase of a sports team.
However those close to him at his company believe he may have taken his eye off the ball with one of his other major investments - Ligue 1 side Nice - who have struggled this term and sit in mid-table with the season almost over.
RMC Sport understands that there is little optimism going into next season despite Nice qualifying for Europe on several occasions in recent years. Ratcliffe's desire to take control at Old Trafford is seen as a "disruption" for those in the south of France, who do not believe much effort is being put into the future.
Nice have won just two of thier last seven games with their last outing ending in a draw against Toulouse at the Allianz Riviera, which was only a third full as fans appear to turn their back on the team's ownership, who have put all their energy into getting a deal for United over the line.
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Club captain Dante appeared to take aim at the Nice hierarchy at the weekend: “I think at some point you have to be clear in what you’re saying. To maintain a project, maybe you need to speak less about objectives and work in silence to create an environment of competitors. Because the expectation is even bigger, and then after, people are frustrated."
Sir Jim Ratcliffe is looking to buy Man Utd (PA)The Independent understands that a preferred bidder could be named by United in the coming days. The Premier League season ends this weekend and, by Friday, a major step in the takeover could be achieved.
There is "optimism" within the INEOS group that their bid could come out on top given its overall value does exceed that of Qatar's Sheikh Jassim despite his vow to "blow Sir Jim Ratcliffe out of the water" with his third bid, which was surprisingly low according to some sources.
There is no guarantee that the Glazer do decide to sell up despite the length of the sale process, which has been overseen by the Raine Group. United have won silverware this term and are set to return to the Champions League despite the uncertainty off the field.
Their prospects next term will be aided if there is clarity over the ownership with Erik ten Hag seeking to add more quality to his squad, but his budget is likely to be determined by whoever is in charge at Old Trafford.