After The Glazers revealed their intention to sell Manchester United, David Beckham is said to be open to talks with possible purchasers.
Beckham is unable to finance the Old Trafford club on his own, but he may join part of an investment consortium as prospective bidders may want to enlist the Red Devils great to increase their chances of winning the race to buy United.
The Glazers, who paid £790 million for Manchester United in 2005, placed the club up for sale on Tuesday. According to Mirror Football, the family is looking to sell for up to £8 billion, which is more than Todd Boehly paid for Chelsea.
According to the Financial Times, Beckham’s love with Manchester United fans is appealing to a potential buyer, who may bring the former midfielder on board to assist secure the club’s purchase.
Beckham has previously been approached by investors interested in owning Manchester United. These conversations never went anywhere, but with the Glazers’ announcement to sell, there is optimism this time.
In a May interview with Sky Sports, Beckham stated that “there are adjustments to be done and changes that are happening” at Manchester United.
He continued: “There aren’t many teams that have gone through what they have in the last few years and are still packing their stadium. There will be adjustments.”
Ratcliffe owns petrochemical giant Ineos and is one of the richest men in the world.
US-based Harris Blitzer Sports Entertainment and the Red Knights consortium, led by Lord Jim O’Neill, who made an unsuccessful attempt to buy the Glazers out in 2010, are also in the frame to purchase the club.
The Glazer family is united in its decision to sell the Old Trafford club but co-chairman Joel is said to have doubts about relinquishing control.
His siblings and co-board members are understood to have convinced him that now is the right time to walk away to maximize profit.
The Manchester United Supporters’ Trust has urged any prospective owner to prioritize the club before their own financial interests. Having Beckham in the running to buy the club as part of a consortium would undoubtedly appeal to Red Devils fans.
Manchester United fans have been dismayed by the club’s ownership for the past 17 years, according to the supporters’ trust. We have seen a drop on the playing side as well as a decline in our stadium over that time.
“While supporters have long advocated for change, this must be the proper change.” Our club requires new investment now more than ever before. This necessitates new ownership.
“Any prospective new owner or investor has to be committed to the culture, ethos, and best traditions of the club.
“They must be willing to invest in order to return United to its former glory, and that investment must be genuine fresh money spent on the playing side and the stadium.” Finally, any new ownership structure must incorporate supporters into their working model, including a degree of fan share ownership.
“Manchester United’s fans are the club’s most valuable asset, and they hold the key to unlocking the ultimate value of any football club.” That partnership must be one of the equals, with both parties sharing ownership and working toward the same goals.”
