Manchester United’s owners, the Glazer family, cannot sanction a full takeover of the club as they seek to retain control at Old Trafford.
News of the Glazer family’s intention to sell United shook the football world, with the world’s richest individuals, companies and sovereign wealth funds taking notice and expressing interest in bidding for the club.
It was reported earlier this month that United’s representatives in the acquisition process, Raine Group, are targeting a full sale by the first quarter of next year.
Another recent report indicated that United co-owner Avram Glazer had met with investors from Saudi Arabia and Qatar during his trip to Doha with the possible sale of United on the agenda.
In addition to the Saudi and Qatari owners, Avram Glazer is also said to have held talks with Dubai-based investment firms.
However, as United fans look to the future with renewed hope, the Glazers may be using the takeover process as a ruse to secure external financing while retaining control of the 20-time English champions.
This is according to Football Insider, who spoke to finance expert Doctor Dan Plumley.
Plumley said: “A partial sale is attractive because the primary owners can maintain control.”
“Them [Glazers] stay top power in the club and get fresh money. It is another person who pays the bill to make the club grow”.
“However, they would be giving up a stake in the club, which would hurt them in the future when you are arranging dividends.”
Plumley adds that the Glazers’ reluctance to pump money into United over the years is a strong indication of their deceitful intent to stay in charge while someone else puts up money.
His language is simply a smoothing mechanism for a larger scheme. He would also continue paying dividends.
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