Turki Al-Sheikh recently shook the world of football when he stated that Manchester United is in a advanced stage of takeover discussions. His words made the fans and the media go into overdrive. But how much is factual? Let’s examine some of the latest facts and the current status.
Who is Turki Al-Sheikh: Manchester United
Turki bin Abdul Mohsen Al-Sheikh is a Saudi government official, widely referred to as a sports and entertainment big name. He was previously the owner of Almerรญa club in Spain, although he sold the club in May 2025.He is also connected with Saudi Arabian major event projects.
What Did He Claim?
On early October 2025, Al-Sheikh tweeted on social media platform X (previously Twitter) that Manchester United is in the “advanced stage” of a deal with a fresh investor.
He also stated that he himself isn’t the investor, and the investor isn’t from his nation (Saudi Arabia).He even remarked: “I hope he’s better than the previous owners.”
Manchester United Reaction
The club has officially denied there are agreed, sophisticated takeover talks.
Club staff are said to be amazed by how suddenly these statements emerged, and they indicated that they were not in the know about deals this advanced before. Up to now, there is no indication the Glazer family (who still control the majority) have signed any deal.
The Glazers, Ratcliffe, Stakes & Clauses
To understand the backdrop, here is where things stand:
In February 2024, Sir Jim Ratcliffeโs INEOS group acquired a 27.7% stake in Manchester United. INEOS now holds sporting control. The Glazer family retain majority ownership and voting power.
The deal with Ratcliffe includes a โdrag-alongโ clause. This means if the Glazers accept a full takeover offer, Ratcliffe may be compelled to either sell his stake or join the deal.
Any outright takeover would therefore most probably involve coordination or accommodation of Ratcliffe’s interests.
Who Might Be Interested?
Speculation runs wild:
A UAE-based investor group is cited by some media as behind the reported bid.
Al-Sheikh’s statement that “the investor is not from my nation” appears to preclude Saudi direct involvement (although indirect involvement or alliances cannot be excluded). In the meantime, Finnish businessman Thomas Zilliacus recently reaffirmed his ongoing interest in taking over Manchester United.
There are reports that Manchester United greats have been sounded out to act as “fronts” or ambassadors for this potential deal.
But none of them have been denied or confirmed by United or the Glazers.
Risks, Doubts and Why Fans Are Wary
There are very good reasons to be wary:
1. No supporting documentation or confirmations โ To date, no contract or leaked legal term has emerged to back the claims.
2. Timing and surprise โ Club staff claim they did not know there were advanced talks. The Glazers have not suggested that they are currently looking for a full exit.
3. Disagreements over valuation โ The Glazers reportedly value United at more than ยฃ5 billion. Any prospective bidder would need to match or surpass that.
4. Possible conditions or rider โ The drag-along clause as a result of Ratcliffe’s holding could make any takeover more complicated.
What Could Happen Next?
The so-called investor could make a formal approach to the club and the Glazers.
The Glazers could accept or decline. On acceptance, Ratcliffe would have to agree to match or join.
The club could stay put, with the present structure in place โ maybe with more minority shareholder adjustments.
Author’s Insight
Turki Al-Sheikh’s assertion that Manchester United is already in deep negotiations for a new owner is daring. But so far, the club denies any such confirmed sales. The employees indicate that they had no idea about any solid offer. The identity of any investor(s) is unclear.
In short, this can be a genuine deal, or it can be yet another wave of gossip. As always, football supporters will observe keenly, keeping fingers crossed for actual change amidst the drama.
