Why Qatar’s stance has changed on ‘overpaying’ for Man United

The Qatari bid for Manchester United have changed their stance in relation to ‘overpaying’ for the club in recent days, according to Sky Sports reporter Kaveh Solhekol.

Representatives of Sheikh Jassim, who’s at the head of the potential takeover, were at Old Trafford and Carrington on Thursday as they spent 10 hours with United officials, who presented powerpoints on financials.

Despite the vast wealth of the southern state, prior reports had stressed that they wouldn’t be willing to overpay for the Manchester-based club.

However, latest reports from Solhekol has stated a change in stance from Qatar, who are now prepared to spend the cash needed to prise the club away from the Glazer family.

Read More: A deep dive into the Glazer ownership of Manchester United: The full story from 2005 to now

It was added that the price that the current owners are placing on the club is forcing the hand of those interested in a takeover.

“If it was just down to money, you would think the Qataris would be able to outbid anyone,” Solhekol said. “I’ve been told previously the Qataris were going to be sensible and not overpay wildly for Manchester United.

“But in the last couple of days, the mood music has changed a little bit. And I’m being told the Qataris really want to buy Manchester United and they are willing to overpay. But I think anybody who buys the club will have to do that – because the Glazers are asking for about £6bn.”

Sheikh Jassim now has less than 10 days to return with a second bid for the club and various reports suggest that he will come in with one.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe flew to Manchester on Friday with an INOES delegation to meet with Manchester United officials, including chief executive Richard Arnold.