Manchester United could be blessed with a new beginning ahead of the next season as according to reports, the current ownership by Glazers is likely to end with a sale.

In 2005, the Glazer family acquired Manchester United and financed the acquisition with debts secured by club assets. Since then there have been controversies regarding their financial commitment, maintaining Old Trafford, or demonstrating adherence to the team's traditions.

The 18-year reign has been marred with fans protests and the club sinking to some low points in its history. But the American owner are now finally ready to cash in on their asset which has been met with delight from many of their supporters.

Their willingness to explore strategic alternatives has received some serious interest with several high-profile organisations now pulling their socks with some substantial bids. The investment bank Raine Group, of New York, will evaluate any bids made to acquire or invest in, with a potential deadline of February 17th.

Here are a couple of things you need to know about the ongoing circumstances-



How much is Manchester United's valuation?

In real terms, at the close of business on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) United are valued around an acquisition of £4 bn. However, it is understood that the Glazers are looking for a valuation close to £6 bn for the full sale of the club.


Parties Interested


British billionaire Ratcliffe- Britain's richest man, and a long-standing Manchester United fan has been the first one to declare his confirmed interest and bid for the club. Ratcliffe's organisation INEOS apparently have made a bid. But there is a possibility of him getting priced out. It is understood that he is ready to make an offer that is only close to £3 bn backed by finances from the likes of Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan etc.



There are reported to be strong interest from investors from Gulf countries as well. Qatar Investment Authority, a sovereign wealth fund has been touted as another possible buyer. But the organization is owned by the emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani who is also an owner of Paris Saint Germain.

The Emir currently owns PSG through the Qatar Sports Investment (QSI) group, a different entity. Now the regulations state that one party cannot own two clubs in the same competition.

However, they reportedly hope to bypass this by demonstrating that both clubs would be administered by different personnel and different organizations much like the Red Bull group.

Dubai's sovereign wealth fund has also been touted with interest while there are also rumors of Tesla and Twitter owner Elon Musk keeping a close eye. All these rumors could take shape in the coming week with a serious announcement likely to be expected after the evaluation of all the proposals.

Till then Manchester United fans can only hope for the best and wish the new potential takeover can bring better and more success going forward.