THE BIDDING WAR BEGINS: 3 Billionaire Groups Emerge as Shock Contenders for $7B United Takeover

The ownership saga at Manchester United has reached a boiling point once again, and this time, it feels different. After nearly twenty years under the controversial Glazer regime, reports suggest that the long-awaited end to their reign may finally be on the horizon. According to The Athletic, the Glazer family is seriously considering a full sale of Manchester United before February 2027 — and three billionaire-backed groups have now emerged as frontrunners in what could become the most expensive takeover in football history.

When the Glazers first took control of United in 2005 through a leveraged buyout, the club was debt-free, successful, and thriving under Sir Alex Ferguson. Two decades later, the landscape looks dramatically different. Over £1 billion has been drained from the club in the form of debt repayments and dividends, while Old Trafford’s once-glorious facilities have fallen behind Europe’s elite. Fan frustration has boiled over in countless protests, culminating in the Green and Gold movement and the 2021 pitch invasion that delayed the Liverpool clash.

For years, whispers of a sale came and went, leaving supporters feeling deceived. But now, the pressure is mounting. United’s debt stands at over £650 million, and the Glazers are facing growing financial strain. With a looming £230 million refinancing bill due in 2027 and rising interest rates threatening their profits, insiders say the family could finally be ready to cash out while the market is hot.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s minority stake, acquired through INEOS in 2023 for £1.3 billion, gave him operational control over football matters but left the Glazers with majority power. His deal also included a “drag-along” clause expiring in early 2027, ensuring he benefits equally from any full sale before that date. That clause effectively sets a timer — one that could push the Glazers to act sooner rather than later if they want maximum profit.

Enter the billionaires. The first name to reappear is Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani of Qatar, who previously made a jaw-dropping £5 billion all-cash offer in 2023 that was rejected. His camp is reportedly revisiting the idea of acquiring United debt-free, with renewed backing from Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund. The second is a powerful UAE consortium linked to the City Football Group network, a move that would ignite a rivalry at ownership level between Manchester’s two giants. The third, and most surprising, is Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, which has already made waves with Newcastle United’s revival and now eyes United as the “crown jewel” of its global sports expansion.

Each suitor brings a different vision. The Qataris promise a complete debt wipeout and modernization of Old Trafford. The UAE group would focus on global brand expansion and youth infrastructure, mirroring City’s success. The Saudis, meanwhile, envision United as the flagship of a multi-league sporting empire. Private equity giants like Carlyle and Apollo are also circling, though fans fear they’d prioritize profit over passion — repeating the Glazers’ mistakes in a new form.

If a sale goes through before 2027, United could finally see long-awaited investments in their stadium, Carrington training complex, and squad rebuilding under Ruben Amorim. Ratcliffe’s football restructuring has already begun, with CEO Omar Berrada and sporting director Dan Ashworth leading a new era of professionalism. Yet, without full financial freedom, United’s climb back to the top remains hindered by old debts and divided ownership.

For fans, the potential sale represents more than just a business transaction — it’s a possible redemption arc. A chance to erase two decades of frustration and restore Manchester United’s identity as a football club, not a financial asset. But many remain skeptical, warning that state-backed buyers could bring political baggage, while corporate owners could repeat history under a new banner.

Despite the uncertainty, momentum is building. Financial insiders claim discussions between intermediaries and potential buyers have intensified in recent weeks, and the Glazers have privately admitted they “won’t hold on forever.” The only question left: who will they sell to, and at what cost?

As the bidding war heats up, the world watches — and United fans hold their breath. The next few months could determine whether Old Trafford sees a rebirth… or another broken promise. Either way, the countdown to 2027 has begun, and this time, the Glazers may finally be running out of time.

Red Devils, the era of change could be closer than you think. Who do you trust to take United forward — Qatar, the UAE, or Saudi Arabia?