Manchester United put up for sale by the Glazers 

Jaap Stam, Roy Keane, Nicky Butt & Ryan Giggs Manchester United
Jaap Stam, Roy Keane, Nicky Butt & Ryan Giggs Manchester United - IMAGO / Allstar

Owners of English Premier League giants Manchester United have put the club up for sale in a surprising twist of events.

The Glazer family, who have owned the club for 17 years, say they are considering selling it as they “explore strategic alternatives”.

The American family bought the Premier League outfit for £790m ($1.34bn) in 2005 but are now willing to sell at a considerable profit after months of protest from club supporters against their ownership.

In a statement released by the Old Trafford side, the club said the board would “consider all strategic alternatives, including new investment into the club, a sale, or other transactions involving the company”.

The statement added that the process “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” to enhance “the long-term success of the club’s men’s, women’s and academy teams, and bringing benefits to fans and other stakeholders”.

Executive co-chairmen and directors Avram Glazer and Joel Glazer also stated they would explore the best option that suits their fans.

“As we seek to continue building on the club’s history of success, the board has authorised a thorough evaluation of strategic alternatives,” they said.

“We will evaluate all options to ensure that we best serve our fans and that Manchester United maximises the significant growth opportunities available to the club today and in the future.

“Throughout this process, we will remain fully focused on serving the best interests of our fans, shareholders, and various stakeholders.”

American investment firm Raine Group, who handled Chelsea’s £4.25bn sale last May, is acting as Man United’s exclusive financial advisor.

The club’s statement added, “There can be no assurance that the review being undertaken will result in any transaction involving the company.

“Manchester United does not intend to make further announcements regarding the review unless and until the board has approved a specific transaction or other course of action requiring a formal announcement.”

Oxford mathematics researcher predicts Brazil to win the 2022 World Cup while Belgium, France and Argentina make it to the last four