Turki Al-Sheikh's social media post claiming a Manchester United takeover is at an "advanced stage" is based on unconfirmed speculation and lacks official substantiation. The claim, made on X (formerly Twitter) on October 9, 2025, has generated significant attention but has not been confirmed by Manchester United, its majority owners the Glazer family, or minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
Here is a breakdown of the key factors surrounding this claim:
The source of the claim
Who is Turki Al-Sheikh? Al-Sheikh is a prominent Saudi figure, serving as the chairman of Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority.
He is also a known boxing promoter who organizes major sporting events in Saudi Arabia.
What was said? Al-Sheikh posted on X that he heard the "best news today is that Manchester United is now in an advanced stage of completing a deal to sell to a new investor". He also took a jab at the current ownership by adding, "I hope he's better than the previous owners".
Context for Al-Sheikh's statement
Negotiations for friendlies: Al-Sheikh's comments come at the same time as reports that Manchester United is in talks to play lucrative mid-season friendly matches in Saudi Arabia, possibly as part of the Riyadh Season events he oversees.
This adds a layer of complexity, with some questioning whether the post was a negotiating tactic.
United's financial situation: Manchester United is in need of revenue after a disappointing 2024–25 season saw them miss out on European competition.
The potential friendlies are seen as a way to offset some of those losses.
The current ownership structure
The Glazer family: The Glazers remain the majority owners of Manchester United.
They rejected a previous full takeover bid from a Qatari group led by Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani in 2023.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS: In February 2024, Sir Jim Ratcliffe's INEOS group completed the purchase of a 27.7% stake in the club, with Ratcliffe taking control of football operations. He later increased his stake to 28.94%.
The 'drag-along clause': As of August 13, 2025, a "drag-along clause" has reportedly been activated.
This allows the Glazers to force Ratcliffe to sell his stake if they receive and accept an offer for the entire club.
Response and potential outcomes
No official confirmation: As of October 9, there has been no official statement from the club, the Glazers, or Ratcliffe confirming Al-Sheikh's claim.
Unclear validity: It is unknown whether Al-Sheikh's claim is based on genuine insight or is a calculated move to increase pressure or publicity.
Investor identity unknown: Even if a sale is genuinely underway, the identity of any potential "new investor" is unknown.