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Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s 25 per cent stake in Manchester United is now not expected to be announced until the week after next.
Mail Sport understands that officials had hoped to broadcast the arrival of the Ineos billionaire ahead of Tuesday’s Bayern Munich fixture at Old Trafford.
However, sources in the US have disclosed that ‘legal structural’ matters have pushed the date back.
There are not thought to be any obstacles or concerns but the delay may well frustrate supporters who see the arrival of the United-supporting local businessman as the beginning of the end for the Glazer family, who will retain a majority stake.
Should matters remain unresolved the upcoming Christmas break could push the announcement into the new year, although those involved hope that is not the case.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s £1.25bn investment in Manchester United is still yet to be officially ratified
There is now belief that his stake in Manchester United will be ratified the week after next
Ratcliffe is thought to have paid close to £1.3bn for a quarter share in United.
The British billionaire will purchase 25 per cent of the A-shares listed on the New York Stock Exchange as well as 25 per cent of the Glazers’ B-shares which have greater voting rights. He will pump an additional £245m into the club to upgrade Old Trafford and Carrington.
Following the announcement, approval is expected to take around six to eight weeks, which means the new group may not be in place in time for the January transfer window.
He beat off competition from Qatar’s Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al Thani, who pulled out of what was a two-horse race for the Premier League giants in October.
More than a year has now passed since the Glazers said they were seeking investment and open to a full sale.
Ratcliffe will also buy 25 per cent of the Glazers’ B-shares which have greater voting rights
