The takeover process of Manchester United from the Glazer family is expected to advance this week, according to a report.
The Glazers stated last November that they are planning to explore "strategic alternatives" that could lead to a possible sale of the club.
Interested parties were initially informed by the Red Devils that a 9pm deadline on March 22 would be set for the Glazers to receive new takeover offers.
Qatar's Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani and INEOS owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe – two of the frontrunners in the race to purchase Man United – missed the deadline, but were granted an extension to submit an improved bid.
It is understood that both Sheikh Jassim and Ratcliffe had opening offers of £4.5bn rejected, but they have since tabled fresh bids, with the former's offer worth in the region of £5bn.
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Finnish entrepreneur Thomas Zilliacus has also revealed that he has made an offer to purchase Man United, while four finance groups based in the USA are said to have tabled proposals to buy the Red Devils.
A recent report claims that the Glazers are ready to begin negotiating their asking price for Man United with bidders, with the Americans currently valuing the 20-time English champions at £6bn.
It is also understood that Joel Glazer and Avram Glazer are contemplating the idea of bringing in investment rather than completing a full sale of the club, while four siblings, Kevin, Edward, Bryan and Darcie, are keen to sell the club outright.
According to the Daily Mail, movement in the takeover process at Man United is expected this week, and the 'situation will develop' over the coming days.
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The report adds that those who have submitted bids to buy Man United were expected to hear a response within the next seven days, but they are still waiting for a reply to their offers.
With fears of a possible takeover not taking place before the summer transfer window, the current situation is said to have has caused 'frustration' and 'annoyance' among some involved in the takeover process.
US merchant bankers Raine Group have been working with the Glazer family on the proposed takeover and will continue to do so until a final decision is made.
Man United currently sit fourth in the Premier League table, three points clear of Tottenham Hotspur in fifth who have played a game more, while Erik ten Hag's men will also prepare for Europa League quarter-final and FA Cup semi-final ties later this month.
Oliver Thomas
