The Qatari investors that are preparing a takeover bid for Manchester United plan to hand Erik ten Hag a ‘transfer war-chest’ to compete for new signings.
Qatar’s monarch Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani is understood to be preparing a bid for the Red Devils, with the investors confident their proposal will ‘blow the competition out of the water’.
According to the Daily Mail, Al Thani is a ‘committed United fan who is well aware of the club’s history’ and is prepared to invest huge sums to restore the club back to the top of world football.
Should he succeed with his takeover bid, the report says that the Qatari investors will hand Erik ten Hag significant funds to compete with world football’s elite for new signings, while also providing investment for the redevelopment – or rebuild – of Old Trafford.
Several obstacles face the Qatari’s bid however, including concerns over the nation’s human rights record and the Qatari ownership of Paris Saint-Germain, given the two clubs could meet in European competition.
The Al Thani family face strong competition from Sir Jim Ratcliffe, a lifelong United supporter who has made his interest in the club public. Ratcliffe is regarded as Britain’s richest man and made an approach to buy Chelsea last year.
Should the Qatari bid receive approval from the Premier League however, it would open up a fascinating dynamic as United’s new-found riches go up against Manchester City‘s Abu Dhabi ownership.
With Newcastle also now under Saudi ownership, it would provide the Premier League with three Gulf State-owned clubs with huge resources.
Liverpool’s owners, Fenway Sports Group, are also looking for investment in the Anfield club, up to and including a full sale.
