The announcement of Sir Jim Ratcliffe's acquisition of a 25% stake in Manchester United is reportedly expected early next week.
The deal is set to be confirmed over a year after the Glazer family, who took charge of the Red Devils in 2005 following an investment of around £800m, initiated the exploration of a potential sale.
Structured as a tender offer, the deal will result in Ratcliffe's INEOS Sports obtaining two boardroom seats at Old Trafford.
According to the Independent, the agreement is now expected to be officially approved before the busy festive season, potentially bringing an end to a saga that has lasted over a year.
The report adds that the agreement is expected to include Ratcliffe acquiring a sufficient number of B shares from the Glazer family to secure 25% of the club's voting rights.
It is also understood that following the confirmation of the 25% stake purchase, the British billionaire is ready to allocate a further £245m for enhancements to the club's infrastructure.
The impending arrival of Ratcliffe has sparked speculation regarding the future of several Manchester United personnel, including manager Erik ten Hag.
On November 15, the club officially announced that Richard Arnold would be stepping down from his role as chief executive.
Devesh Jaganath
