Sir Jim Ratcliffe is set to complete his minority buy-in at Manchester United later this week. His investment, expected to be around £1.2 billion, has been delayed until Friday, although he has been approved by the Premier League’s directors and owners’ test. Until the takeover is complete, uncertainties loom over the futures of players Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans, who are both out of contract in the summer. According to reports, Manchester United will only make concrete decisions on the duo’s future after Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS team are in place at Old Trafford.
This situation has left manager Erik ten Hag in a difficult position, as he is unable to provide assurances to the two players, pending the completion of the takeover and the appointment of key personnel. The completion of the takeover by INEOS is crucial in determining the future of players like Varane and Evans. If the appointment of key personnel takes time, it may affect the decision-making process regarding the players’ contracts. Additionally, other players such as Anthony Martial, Tom Heaton, and Brandon Williams who are also out of contract at the end of the season could be potentially affected by the club’s new regime.
With the investment expected to be finalized by the end of the week, there is hope for clarity regarding the future of the players and the club’s operation moving forward.