Sheikh Al Thani confirms he has bid for Manchester United

Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad bin Jaber Al Thani has confirmed he has lodged a bid to buy Manchester United.

Al Thani, chairman of one of Qatar’s biggest banks, has long been expected to lodge a bid for United and has now spoken publicly to confirm his bid.

“Sheikh Jassim Bin Hamad Al Thani today confirmed his submission of a bid for 100 per cent of Manchester United Football Club,” a statement read.

“The bid plans to return the Club to its former glories both on and off the pitch, and – above all – will seek to place the fans at the heart of Manchester United Football Club once more.

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“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 Football Club to be renowned for footballing excellence, and regarded as the greatest football club in the world. More details of the bid will be released, when appropriate, if and when the bid process develops.”

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February 17 is the deadline set by Raine Group, who are managing the sale, and United are expecting multiple offers for the club.

British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe is known to be interested in buying the club while there is also believed to be further interest from across Asia and in the United States.

The Glazer family are hoping to receive at least $6bn for their sale of the club although sources believe that figure could rise as high as $10bn, depending on the level of formal interest ahead of the deadline.