Manchester United continue to prioritise a full takeover ahead of selling minority shares, reports ESPN.
At least two United States-based equity funds have indicated a willingness to purchase minority shares.
However, Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al-Thani and Sir Jim Ratcliffe remain firmly in contention to complete a full buy-out.
Both value Man United below the Glazer’s £6 billion asking price – a price that reflects United’s status as the biggest club in England but is undercut by the club’s performances in the last few years as well as their precarious finances.
There have been concerns that the takeover process has stalled as a result.
However, the club’s staff have been assured of clarity on the situation before the season ends.
The process is set to move into its second stage, with both bidders set to meet with the Raine Group.
The would-be owners will hope the process is fastened and completed quickly.
Man United need to have new owners well in place ahead of the summer transfer window.
Joel and Avram Glazer remain reluctant to sell the Red Devils.
Al Thani and Ratcliffe may need to up their offers to convince the Glazer brothers.
They will be given access to the club’s financial and legal data after meeting with the Raine Group, which will influence their final and binding offers.
Once Man United accept a bid, the Premier League will conduct their owners and directors test.
It could take a while to approve whoever wins the bidding war depending on a couple of factors.
The fans are already dreaming of life under new ownership after years of struggle since Sir Alex Ferguson departed.
The Old Trafford club won the Carabao Cup last month and will look to challenge for the league title next term.
They could do with more quality additions, with Tottenham Hotspur’s Harry Kane just one of many high-profile names linked to United for this summer’s transfer window.
