Sir Jim Ratcliffe is set to conclude his £1.25 billion investment in Manchester United before Christmas, according to reports in England. However, fans are cautioned not to expect their Christmas stockings to be filled with gifts despite the billionaire’s arrival at the club and the anticipated major changes.
The “Ineos” company chief and lifelong “Red Devils” fan will purchase a 25% stake in Manchester United, giving him significant influence over the club’s sporting and technical processes.
Negotiations have been ongoing for months, but now “Daily Mail” claims that the deal will be announced this week. However, approval is likely to take between six and eight weeks.
Part of the £1.25 billion investment includes £250 million for the infrastructure at “Old Trafford,” which is now crumbling, decaying, and leaking. However, while addressing these issues remains a top priority for Ratcliffe, those plans are reportedly postponed for the time being.
United has hired architects to draw up various ways to improve Old Trafford—including complete demolition and reconstruction. But material prices have risen in the past year, increasing the costs for any construction work. And that means £250 million won’t be enough even just to replace the Sir Bobby Charlton Stand.