Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani and Sir Jim Ratcliffe are reportedly not the only two candidates in the running to complete a takeover of Manchester United.
Both Sheikh Jassim and Ratcliffe have made big-money offers for the Red Devils, and a preferred bidder is expected to be named in the near future, with the process potentially heading towards its latter stages.
Sheikh Jassim is looking to complete a 100% purchase of the club, but Ratcliffe allegedly only wants a controlling stake, with the British billionaire then potentially completing a takeover after three years.
Recent reports have played Sheikh Jassim and Ratcliffe as the favourites, but according to ESPN, there are still multiple investors in the running at this stage of proceedings.
Last November, when announcing that they were prepared to discuss a sale, the Glazer family, who own Man United, also revealed that they were open to bringing in investment.
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A number of investment firms are allegedly waiting to hear whether their offers have been successful, with US bank Raine Group working on the sale for the Glazers.
Carlyle, Elliott Management, Ares Management Corporation and Sixth Street have been named by ESPN as the parties in the running to purchase a minority stake.
There have long been suggestions of a potential split in the Glazer camp, with some members of the family keen to remain involved at Old Trafford and others wanting to remove themselves entirely.
Under Ratcliffe's deal, the Glazers could potentially remain at the club as minority shareholders before Ratcliffe completes a full takeover in 2026.
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Sheikh Jassim, meanwhile, is prepared to wipe the club's debts, in addition to committing significant funds to improve Old Trafford and the club's training ground, which have fallen behind their competitors.
The Qatari banker is also said to be willing to make huge funds available this summer for transfers, with Paris Saint-Germain's Kylian Mbappe viewed as a leading target.
Man United have had a turbulent last 10 years following Sir Alex Ferguson's departure, but there were signs of progress and stability last season under new manager Erik ten Hag.
The Dutchman ended the club's six-year trophy drought by securing the EFL Cup, while he led the team to a third-place finish in the Premier League and the final of the FA Cup.
Matt Law
