Manchester United bidders have been warned that they must avoid public campaigns that could be deemed as causing ‘damage’ to the Glazer family, according to a new report.
The bidding process for the club is currently ongoing, with two confirmed offers having already been submitted.
Qatari businessman Sheikh Jassim, chairman of one of the state’s biggest banks, has launched an offer through his foundation, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos also in the race.
US hedge fund Elliott have also presented a financing proposal for a bid, according to The Times.
However, a new report from the same outlet claims that, in particular, a statement from the Qatari-based bid has caused ‘consternation among those running the process’.
Both Sheikh Jassim and Ineos released statements accompanying confirmation of their bids that were made public, but the Raine Group, who are managing the sale on behalf of the Glazers, are said to have reminded all parties that the process should remain private.
United boss Erik ten Hag, meanwhile, refused to give his thoughts on the takeover process when asked about it following his side’s 3-0 win over Leicester on Sunday.
The Dutchman wants to direct his full focus towards on-field matters, and said: “We are committed with this club. It is our club. It’s in our heart, but it [potential takeover] is not our job.
“We focus on football and performing and that is what the players and staff have to do.”
What have Man Utd bidders said?
In confirming the bid from Sheikh Jassim’s foundation bid, a spokesperson said (via BBC Sport): “The bid plans to return the club to its former glories.
“The bid will be completely debt free via Sheikh Jassim’s Nine Two foundation, which will look to invest in the football teams, the training centre, the stadium and wider infrastructure, the fan experience and the communities the club supports.
“The vision of the bid is for Manchester United to be renowned for footballing excellence, and regarded as the greatest football club in the world.”
Meanwhile, Ratcliffe and Ineos said in a statement: “We would see our role as the long-term custodians of Manchester United on behalf of the fans and the wider community.
“We are ambitious and highly competitive and would want to invest in Manchester United to make them the number one club in the world once again.
“We also recognise that football governance in this country is at a crossroads. We would want to help lead this next chapter, developing the culture of English football by making the club a beacon for a modern, progressive, fan-centred approach to ownership.
“We want a Manchester United anchored in its proud history and roots in the North-West of England, putting the Manchester back into Manchester United and clearly focusing on winning the Champions League.”
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