UAE Consortium Eyes Manchester United with Beckham

A consortium from the United Arab Emirates has reportedly approached David Beckham to front a takeover bid for the Glazers’ majority shareholding in Manchester United, asking him to act as an ambassador and potentially invest. Beckham — who already has stakes in Inter Miami and Salford City and has publicly criticised the Glazers — is the consortium’s preferred candidate ahead of other ex-players such as Eric Cantona and Wayne Rooney. The Glazers are said to be seeking offers in excess of £5 billion, more than double United’s current market valuation of around £2 billion, and would expect a premium if proposed plans such as a new 100,000-seat stadium proceed. Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS Group controls football operations and now holds nearly 29% of the club, and reports suggest contractual clauses could compel Ratcliffe to sell his stake if the Glazers dispose of their controlling shares. Manchester United have been approached for comment as coverage of the prospective bid continues.