Certain members of the Glazer family, the co-owners of Manchester United, are now reported to be exploring the possibility of offloading their shares in the club. The family has controlled the club for over two decades, though they have faced strong and sustained opposition from supporters.
Bloomberg reports that several family members have been engaging in ‘internal discussions’ regarding the potential sale of their stakes, and are attempting to persuade others to follow suit. It’s reported that these conversations involve select individuals rather than the family collectively, with some opposed to any sale.
This could make any transaction problematic, unless there is a shift in position. Prospective purchasers would likely encounter a substantial asking price should they wish to acquire a stake in United.
Mirror Football reported in October last year that the Glazers would only entertain bids exceeding £5billion should they opt to relinquish their stake in the club. The valuation is believed to factor in United’s projected worth once the club finalises proposals to construct a new 100,000-capacity stadium.
Avram and Joel Glazer currently serve as executive co-chairmen at United, while Kevin Glazer, Bryan Glazer, Darcie Glazer Kassewitz, and Edward Glazer are all listed as directors on the board.
In February 2024, the Glazers offloaded a 27.7 per cent stake in the club to Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS operation. The businessman committed £1.25 billion to finalise the acquisition and assume control of football operations.
The most recent New York Stock Exchange figures show United trading at approximately $21 (£15.6), which values the club at roughly $3.6 billion (£2.7 billion). However, the asking price will be considerably higher given the voting rights that Glazer shares provide.
There has been conjecture surrounding a potential takeover at Old Trafford for quite some time. Saudi businessman Turki Al-Sheikh suggested that a takeover was in the offing back in October.
He is significantly involved in staging major boxing events. He now appears to be edging closer to a potential takeover of Championship side Derby County.