Manchester United are hoping for a takeover before the summer because it will help them prepare for the transfer window and have an impact on contract extensions, according to respected journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The Glazer family took control of the Red Devils in 2005 when they paid £790 million for more than 70% of the club’s assets, but a change in ownership appears to be on the cards.

The Glazers have taken over Manchester United

Sir Jim Ratcliffe has officially entered the race to take over Manchester United from the Glazers, according to The Times.

According to the report, key meetings on proposals have taken place in London this week, and a spokesman for Ratcliffe’s petrochemicals company, Ineos, has confirmed an interest has been registered.

Manchester United has received serious interest from the Middle East, Asia, and the United States, and the Glazer family is preparing to invite formal bids by the end of February.

It comes after the Americans announced in November that they are considering selling the Red Devils as they ‘explore strategic alternatives’.

Last year, Ratcliffe attempted to buy Manchester United but was told that the Glazers were not interested in leaving the club at that time.

What is Fabrizio Romano’s take on the situation?

Romano understands that the Manchester United hierarchy wishes to complete a takeover before the summer.

The Italian journalist believes that if the Glazers leave before the season’s end, the Red Devils will be able to plan ahead of the transfer window.

Romano also believes that a change in ownership may have an impact on starting new negotiations with current stars.

“It’s really important that all of the people on the board and the staff hope that everything can be completed before the summer in order to prepare for the summer transfer window and possibly help with contract extensions,” he told GiveMeSport.

What is the value of Manchester United?

According to Reuters, some analysts believe Manchester United is worth more than £3.6 bᎥllᎥon.

According to the report, that sum could price Ratcliffe out after he also failed in an attempt to buy Chelsea before a consortium led by Todd Boehly completed a £4.25 bᎥllᎥon takeover last year.

Despite estimates, it is understood that the Glazer family were seeking significantly more than that amount a few months ago, given the price the west Londoners sold for.

That is because, in October, it was reveɑled that Manchester United would only be sold if a bid in excess of £9 bᎥllᎥon was made, making the Red Devils the most valuable sports team in the world.