(Football news) Manchester United have two potential owners in Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Sheikh Jassim Bin Hamad Al Thani, who have made offers for a complete takeover of the club before last Friday’s soft deadline. Investment bank Raine Group is now assessing the offers with the Glazer family before deciding who should be given access to detailed financial information about the club. The process is an important one as it will help potential owners carry out due diligence before making a formal offer. If the takeover goes through, it’s expected to be done before the summer transfer window begins in June.

Both Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Sheikh Jassim Bin Hamad Al Thani have said that any profits generated will be reinvested back into the club and the local community. Ratcliffe, who was born in Greater Manchester, grew up supporting Manchester United and believes that the club is a great English cultural asset and is keen to invest in Manchester United’s infrastructure and the club itself as part of his long term vision. However, his offer will be partly funded by debt but it would not appear on Manchester United’s balance sheet and the liability of the payment depends on only him and his company INEOS.

Meanwhile, Sheikh Jassim’s takeover (if it goes through) will be completely debt free and the Qatari royal is said to be a Manchester United fan. He began supporting the club in 1992 and the takeover is being overseen by his Nine Two Foundation, which has been named after the famous Class of 92 featuring David Beckham, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Gary Neville, Phil Neville and Nicky Butt. US hedge fund Elliott Management have also lodged a proposal with Raine Group before Friday’s deadline for a minority stake at the club or provide debt financing for another bidder.

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