REVEALED: Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first four signings at Man Utd
According to reports, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Britain’s richest man, has identified four players he would like to bring to Manchester United if he were to agree on a deal to buy out the Glazers’ ownership of the club.
Ratcliffe is said to be growing more confident that he can secure the purchase of the Red Devils, who are reportedly up for sale. Meetings have taken place between the club and potential buyers.
After purchasing Manchester United for £790 million in 2005, the Glazers are now reportedly seeking to sell the club, marking the end of their 18-year tenure. If Sir Jim Ratcliffe is able to become the new major stakeholder, he has reportedly already planned his moves, as per the Daily Record.
One of Ratcliffe’s first priorities is reportedly to secure a new deal for Marcus Rashford, who is having his best-ever season, having scored 27 goals in 44 games. Rashford’s contract with Manchester United is set to expire in the summer, but the club has an option for another year. However, Paris Saint-Germain is also believed to be interested in signing the England international.
In addition to Rashford, Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Manchester United transfer plans reportedly include targeting Victor Osimhen, for whom Erik ten Hag will be given permission to pursue at all costs. The transfer fee for the striker could amount to around £120 million, which would make up around half of their budget. Ratcliffe is also said to be interested in Monaco defender Axel Disasi for a possible move to strengthen the team’s defense.
According to reports, Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s plans for Manchester United also include signing a new midfielder, with players such as Jude Bellingham, Frenkie de Jong, or Declan Rice under consideration. In order to raise funds for these signings, Erik ten Hag will reportedly look to offload up to seven players who are considered surplus to requirements.
Recent reports suggest that the Glazers may be hesitant to sell Manchester United in full, with the club being valued somewhere between £6bn – £8bn.
However, Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS and a group of Qatari investors led by Sheikh Jassim are believed to be the two primary candidates to take over the club.
REVEALED: Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first four signings at Man Utd
