James Murray
Thu 13 February 2025 17:48, UK
Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe could demand more shares in the club to help fund the Old Trafford regeneration project, sources have told Football Insider.
The INEOS chief purchased a 27.7 per cent stake in the Premier League side in February last year after agreeing a £1.25billion deal with the Glazers.
Ratcliffe has now increased his stake in Man United to 28.9 per cent after injecting £238million into the club.
The Glazers, who bought a 98 per cent stake in 2005, have since seen their shareholding diluted to 48.9 per cent.
United’s stadium regeneration task force – which includes Manchester mayor Andy Burnham and ex-defender Gary Neville – is considering plans to either expand Old Trafford or build a new facility altogether.
Ratcliffe is currently looking to source the necessary funds for the redevelopment project after taking over the footballing operations at Old Trafford.
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Sources have told Football Insider INEOS would not put money into the club to help finance the development without securing more shares from the Glazers.
Man United finances questioned after £700m+ reveal
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has revealed she is backing the project as “a shining example” of government plans to promote economic growth.
Plans are in place for the regeneration of the Old Trafford area, with the stadium development at the heart of the proposals.
Man United’s new stadium plans could cost the club more than £2billion as they will be financially responsible for that part of the project.
The Manchester giants’ financial situation has been in the spotlight recently after they sent a letter to fan groups last month warning them the club are at risk of breaking the profit and sustainability rules (PSR).
Their latest accounts for 2023-24 revealed they generated a club-record revenue of £661.8million despite recording a net loss of £113.2million, with top-flight sides only permitted to make £105million of losses over a rolling three-year period.
United’s existing debt also stands at more than £700million after they have faced financial challenges in recent years.
Man United set for £27m hit after Premier League blow
Ratcliffe has come under intense scrutiny over the past few months following his attempts to slash costs at Old Trafford.
United fans have expressed their anger towards the hiked ticket prices, staff redundancies and pay cuts for club ambassadors, including Sir Alex Ferguson.
Man United
(Credit: Getty Images)
Performances on the pitch have also failed to improve since Ruben Amorim replaced Erik ten Hag as manager in November as they currently sit 13th in the Premier League table.
Football Insider revealed on 6 February United are set for a £27million hit in prize money following their disappointing season.
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