United said the Glazer family was exploring outside funding to enhance growth — a move that could pave the way to a potential buyout.
“As part of this process, the board will consider all strategic alternatives, including new investment into the club, a sale, or other transactions involving the company," it said in a statement.
American investment bank the
Raine earlier this year handled the sale of
While there is no guarantee the Glazers will cede complete control of United, the news will provide hope to the team’s supporters who have long-campaigned to drive out the American family, which also owns the NFL’s
The late tycoon
Unrest has continued in the following years and in recent times seen increasingly angry protests. A game against Liverpool had to be postponed last year following demonstrations at Old Trafford.
“The strength of
They added that throughout the process "we will remain fully focused on serving the best interests of our fans, shareholders, and various stakeholders.”
United fans have been critical of the leveraged nature of the Glazers’ buyout that loaded debt onto the club, as well as a perceived lack of investment and the dividends taken out by the owners.
The club has endured a sustained period of decline since the retirement of
United said among its plans for growth was the potential redevelopment of its Old Trafford stadium — something supporters have long called for.
It is likely Raine would use the Chelsea sale as gauge for any valuation — and hope to exceed that figure for one of the most popular sports teams in the world.
“Our position has developed since the summer and we are now focusing our efforts in Nice and raising our ambitions for the club to make them into a top tier club in
Liverpool — another storied
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