Manchester United

Premier League 'to ratify Sir Jim Ratcliffe deal in coming days'

By Carter White | 08 February 2024

The Premier League are reportedly preparing to ratify Sir Jim Ratcliffe's minority takeover of Manchester United by the start of next week.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe is reportedly prepared for his Manchester United minority takeover to be ratified by the Premier League early next week.

Man United announced on Christmas Eve that they had agreed a deal with the INEOS owner for an initial 25% of the Red Devils as part of a phased acquisition of the club.

The agreement involves Ratcliffe and INEOS assuming complete control of footballing operations, while the Glazer family will still have their say commercially.

Ratcliffe has promised significant investment in Man United's playing staff and facilities, including improvements to Old Trafford.

According to Football Insider, Ratcliffe's minority takeover is set to be ratified by next week and that 'it will be a catalyst for further deals'.

Manchester United co owner Jim Ratcliffe is seen in the stands before the match on January 14, 2024 © Reuters

The Red Devils are expected to continue their overhaul of their senior staff, with the search for a new sporting director, chief scout and head of recruitment underway.

Ratcliffe and INEOS have already shown their intent at driving change on the red side of Manchester by appointing Omar Berrada as the club's new chief executive officer.

The former Manchester City CEO has replaced Richard Arnold in that particular role, with Berrada enjoying successful periods at the Etihad Stadium and Barcelona.

On the pitch, three-straight wins across all competitions has eased the pressure on United boss Erik ten Hag ahead of a summer of change at the club.

Manchester United's Alejandro Garnacho celebrates scoring their second goal with Rasmus Hojlund and Kobbie Mainoo on February 4, 2024 © Reuters

Last time out saw the Red Devils breeze past West Ham United at Old Trafford, with a brace from Alejandro Garnacho and a Rasmus Hojlund strike securing a three-goal victory.

Ten Hag's side sit sixth in the Premier League standings after collecting 38 points from 23 top-flight matches, meaning that they sit eight points behind fourth-placed Aston Villa.

New owner Ratcliffe has expressed his desire to put results on the pitch at the heart of the club's decision-making, with the aim to get Man United competing for major honours once again.

Following Sir Alex Ferguson's departure at the conclusion of the 2012-13 term, the Red Devils have failed to add to their 20 top-flight titles.