Glazer bids to convince Irish duo to support Utd sale

Sports tycoon Malcolm Glazer will this week try to persuade Manchester United’s largest shareholders to back his takeover offer, it was reported today.

Irish investors JP McManus and John Magnier, who have a 28.9% stake in the club, are expected to discuss the move with the American businessman’s representatives.

According to reports in the Sunday Telegraph and the Independent on Sunday, the crucial talks are set to take place this week.

If Mr Glazer gains the pair’s support, it would boost his holding to 57% and pave the way for his £800m (€1.1bn) offer to go through.

The board of Manchester United has still not given an official response to the 300p a share offer, which was presented 10 days ago.

Chief executive David Gill has already said 300p represented a “fair” price for the club. But it is understood that some directors strongly oppose a sale to Mr Glazer amid claims his bid includes too much debt.

The intentions of the Irish shareholders remain unknown, with analysts split over whether or not they will sell out.