Saudi Billionaire Turki Al Sheikh on the verge of buying Man Utd Man Utd New Owner Saudi Billionaire Turki Al Sheikh

Saudi sports magnate Turki Al-Sheikh has sent shockwaves through the football world with a cryptic message hinting that a Manchester United takeover is at a near-final stage. The announcement has reignited speculation over the Glazer family’s future with the club and sent fans into a frenzy over the possibility of new ownership.

Al-Sheikh, who currently serves as the chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority and advisor at the Royal Court, took to social media to claim that Manchester United is in an “advanced stage” of being sold to a new investor. His post included a pointed dig at the current Glazer ownership, with him expressing hope that any new buyer would be “better than the previous owners.”

The timing and vagueness of the post have stirred plenty of intrigue. While many assumed Al-Sheikh himself might be leading the takeover bid, he later clarified that he is not the investor. He said that his statement was intended more to highlight that negotiations are underway, rather than to claim direct involvement in the deal.

Nevertheless, the claim has not come without controversy. Inside Manchester United, sources say staff were left surprised by the sudden announcement, with little prior indication of any imminent full sale. The Glazer family — who still control a major stake in the club and retain voting rights — have denied that any takeover talks are at a conclusion.

The backdrop to this drama is the Glazers’ decision in recent years to explore partial or complete sales of the club. In 2024, they sold a 29 percent stake to Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS group. That move gave Ratcliffe significant influence over sporting decisions, though the Glazers have retained controlling interests.

One of the sticking points in any takeover is valuation. Manchester United is widely estimated to be worth over £5 billion, and any prospective buyer would need to satisfy both the Glazer family’s price and Ratcliffe’s rights under existing agreements. There is also a “drag-along” clause that could force Ratcliffe to match any accepted bid or to sell his shares if the Glazers choose a buyer.

Some reports suggest that the speculated buyer might be part of a broader Saudi consortium seeking to expand its presence in global football. If such a takeover materializes, it would follow Saudi investments in clubs like Newcastle United, demonstrating the kingdom’s growing influence in the sport.

For many Manchester United fans, the idea of a Saudi billionaire taking charge brings both excitement and concern. While a financial overhaul could restore United to its glory days, some supporters worry about losing the club’s traditional identity under foreign ownership. Still, others argue that new investment is the only way to compete with Manchester City, Real Madrid, and other European heavyweights.

Turki Al-Sheikh’s reputation as an ambitious and passionate sports figure only fuels the debate. Known for his deep involvement in global entertainment and sport, he has previously overseen major events in Saudi Arabia, including high-profile boxing matches and football tournaments. His name being linked to a club as historic as Manchester United naturally raises expectations of massive change.

As things stand, no official confirmation has been made regarding any deal, and the Glazers have yet to comment directly on Al-Sheikh’s claims. However, the buzz surrounding the billionaire’s remarks has once again put Manchester United at the center of world football’s attention.

If the rumors turn out to be true, this could mark the most transformative moment in the club’s modern history — a potential new era led by one of the Middle East’s most influential businessmen. For now, the football world watches closely, waiting to see whether Turki Al-Sheikh’s words are just a spark of speculation or the beginning of a new dawn at Old Trafford.