Sheikh Jassim has performed a U-turn when it comes to his takeover bid for Manchester United, according to reports. The Qatari billionaire had vowed earlier in the week to walk away from the process after submitting a fifth bid, providing he doesn’t get the answer he wants. However, in yet another twist, that’s no longer the case.
Earlier in the week, Sheikh Jassim vowed to walk away from the United takeover process if his fifth bid isn’t accepted.
Yet The Guardian claim this is no longer the case and the Qatari billionaire’s offer will ‘remain live’ even if the Glazers don’t approve.
It’s claimed both Sheikh Jassim and his advisers have become ‘frustrated’ at the process, which has dragged on ever since November.
He had previously insisted he would quit after three bids.
Yet, amid talk Sir Jim Ratcliffe is in pole position, the mysterious figure isn’t willing to walk away entirely just yet.
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The report suggests there are fears within the Qatari camp that they’ll end up missing out to Ratcliffe.
The 70-year-old previously missed out on buying Chelsea to American Todd Boehly and, therefore, is hoping he strikes gold at the second time of asking.
Ratcliffe is willing to let the Glazers stay at United in reduced roles should his bid be successful, something that has sparked a huge backlash online.
Yet it’s claimed no agreement with INEOS is ‘imminent’, which gives Sheikh Jassim a glimmer of hope.
Ratcliffe’s INEOS remain in talks with the Glazers but the situation remains uncertain and, therefore, another delay to proceedings is now expected.
That will be a blow to manager Erik ten Hag, who is desperate for clarity as he looks to improve his squad in this summer’s transfer window.
United are continuing to work on a deal for Mason Mount, with the Chelsea star a top target for midfield.
But with the Blues looking for £70million to let their academy graduate go, it’s unclear if the Glazers will sanction such a big deal.
United would also love to secure the signature of Harry Kane amid uncertainty over the 29-year-old’s future at Tottenham.
Yet Spurs won’t let their talisman join a direct rival, with Real Madrid also interested in Kane following the sudden departure of Karim Benzema.
A new right-back could arrive, despite the improvement of Diogo Dalot and Aaron Wan-Bissaka this season.
And though David De Gea is expected to sign a new contract with the club, the Red Devils are open to bringing in another goalkeeper as well.
Speaking after United lost to Manchester City in the FA Cup final on Saturday, meanwhile, Ten Hag vowed to improve his squad.
“I have only one plan, that is to improve this club, improve this team,” said the 53-year-old. “I will fight for my ideas. I will talk to the club about what we have to do for that.
“But I have to work with my staff, my players, to be better next season.”
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