Amazon have reportedly emerged as a potential candidate to purchase Manchester United from the Glazer family.
The current owners of the Red Devils released a statement last month confirming that they plan to explore "strategic alternatives" and this could lead to a possible sale of the club.
"Manchester United plc, one of the most successful and historic sports clubs in the world, announces today that the company's board of directors (the "board") is commencing a process to explore strategic alternatives for the club," a statement read on Man United's official website.
"The process is designed to enhance the club's future growth, with the ultimate goal of positioning the club to capitalize on opportunities both on the pitch and commercially.
"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.
© Reuters
"This will include an assessment of several initiatives to strengthen the club, including stadium and infrastructure redevelopment, and expansion of the club's commercial operations on a global scale, each in the context of enhancing the long-term success of the club's men's, women's and academy teams, and bringing benefits to fans and other stakeholders."
A recent report claims that the Glazer family, who bought Man United back in 2005, are hopeful of selling the club in full by the end of March for a figure between £6bn and £7bn.
However, The Athletic states that this valuation is considered unrealistic by experts in the City of London.
The same report claims that American multinational e-commerce company Amazon are the latest name to be linked with buying Man United, according to 'some close to the talks', although a spokesperson said that they have "declined to comment on rumour and speculation."
Founded in 1994 by billionaire Jeff Bezos, Amazon currently have a £30m-a-year deal with the Premier League to broadcast matches, while they also has a sleeve sponsorship with Serie A leaders Napoli.
© Reuters
The report also states that Apple have no interest in tabling an offer to buy Man United despite rumours that the American multinational technology company were considering a move for the club.
Spanish billionaire Amancio Ortega and British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe have also been mooted as potential buyers of the Red Devils, although the latter has ruled himself out of purchasing any Premier League club having also been linked with Liverpool.
Man United are one of the most decorated clubs in world football having won 20 English top-flight titles, 12 FA Cups, five EFL Cups and three Champions Leagues.
However, since the departure of legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013, the Red Devils have only won three major trophies and have failed to lift any silverware in the last five seasons.
Erik ten Hag's side currently sit fifth in the Premier League table, three points behind the top four and 11 points adrift of league leaders Arsenal, while they are also competing in the Europa League, with a mouthwatering playoff tie against Barcelona scheduled in February.
Oliver Thomas
