Sir Jim Ratcliffe is reportedly considering making an offer for a minority stake in Manchester United.
Last November, the club's current owners, the Glazer family, signalled a willingness to enter into discussions over a sale of the 20-time English champions.
However, almost a year on, the Americans remain in charge, with neither Ratcliffe nor Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani believed to have presented an offer which matches their valuation.
Sheikh Jassim wants to complete an immediate 100% takeover, with his bid said to be around £5bn, while Ratcliffe is said to be seeking a controlling stake, which would become permanent after three years.
There is believed to be a divide within the Glazer family when it comes to the best course of action, which is thought to be one of the reasons why the takeover process has stalled.
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A recent report claimed that Ratcliffe was preparing to restructure his offer in the hope of finally making a breakthrough.
According to BBC Sport, the owner and founder of the INEOS group is currently considering making a bid to purchase a minority stake in Man United.
The report claims that the British billionaire is still determined to secure the ownership in the long term, and he believes that a minority stake at this stage would be the best course of action considering the state of play.
Ratcliffe recently said that failing to purchase the Red Devils was not an option, but it is often been suggested that he is behind Sheikh Jassim when it comes to the pecking order of bidders for the club.
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Sky News have reported that the offer could be for around 25% of the club, meaning that the Glazers would remain in majority control.
Large numbers of Man United fans have again been protesting against the club's owners this season, while ex-Red Devils captain Gary Neville is one of a number of leading figures to speak out against the Glazer family.
Man United also have severe on-field issues, with the team losing six of their opening 10 matches of the 2023-24 campaign.
The Red Devils have made their worst start to a league season in 34 years, having suffered four defeats from their first seven matches, while they have been beaten in their opening two Champions League group-stage fixtures.
Galatasaray recorded a 3-2 victory at Old Trafford in the European Cup on Tuesday night, but head coach Erik ten Hag said after the match that he is not fearful when it comes to his future.
Matt Law
