Despite conjecture tipping Sheikh Jassim Bin Hamad Al Thani of Qatar as the likely winner in the struggle for Manchester United's acquisition, native billionaire Jim Ratcliffe stands firm in his resolution not to surrender his quest.
Ratcliffe, in a private conversation with an inside source, disclosed that he has had several interactions with the Glazer family, the present owners of Manchester United. Under a confidentiality agreement, he did note that "we're still in the middle of a process."
"We've tabled a strong proposal and have had multiple engagements with the Glazers. We are still earnestly desirous of completing this acquisition. We're in it for the right reasons, but ultimately, it's their call, not ours," Ratcliffe stated with firm resolve.
Earlier this week, reports from Qatari media suggested that Sheikh Jassim's circle is confident that "the official announcement is imminent," with the Glazer family set to sign the purchasing agreement "within hours."
Nevertheless, so far, no concrete signals have emerged from the club's core insiders indicating a tilt toward Sheikh Jassim's camp.
Ratcliffe's roots are firmly planted in Failsworth, Lancashire (currently within Greater Manchester's boundaries), and though he later relocated to East Yorkshire, his undying affection for his childhood team endures.
"Opportunities like this are few and far between. Some teams have a unique aura, and their worth keeps escalating. Their value is special, scarce - akin to a work of art," Ratcliffe affirmed.
Fans have expressed a strong affinity for the owner of the Ineos Group, due to his deep-seated connections to the club and his comprehension of football's cultural milieu.
The single qualm supporters have voiced is his aspiration to acquire only a 50% stake in Manchester United, allowing the Glazer siblings, Avram and Joel, to maintain a 20% share.
The Glazer family has faced significant backlash from Manchester United supporters, who allege that the club's mismanagement has resulted in the accumulation of significant debt while allowing the Glazers to profit regardless of the team's performance.
Ratcliffe dismissed any intention to rename Old Trafford in association with his global chemicals firm, insisting such a move "would amount to sacrilege," and confirmed that "it will always remain Old Trafford."
