Man Utd takeover offers are ‘imminent’ but £1bn Old Trafford redevelopment is a key stumbling block

Irwin Kishner, co-chair of Herrick's Sports Law Group was quoted in an article in iNews discussing the sale of Manchester United and how redevelopment of their stadium may be a key stumbling block. The article notes that while the World Cup and that Christmas holidays have slowed down the sale process several sources have confirmed that "consortiums from the United States, the Middle East and Asia [are] considering joining the auction." 

“We have finished a traditionally quiet period in business,” said Kishner. “Manchester United is one of the most valuable franchises in the world, along with the Dallas Cowboys and New York Yankees."

“We will see interest in the club ramp up in the next few weeks. Even though it will take a record fee to take it away from the Glazers. There are a limited number of franchises of this size that become available.”

The article further discusses that one catch may be the club's announcement of the redevelopment of its stadium, which has "fallen into disrepair in comparison to rivals' ultra-modern arenas, forcing the club to take action." The development plans will fall on the new owners, which could purportedly add another £1 billion on to the sale price.

Read the full article in iNews here. Access may require a subscription.