Russian tycoon may tackle United bid

THE Irish millionaire duo of John Magnier and JP McManus may soon find themselves fighting a bitter takeover at Manchester United, where they own more than 24% of the club’s shares.

The pair’s investment company, Cubic Expression, holds more than 24% of the club after making a number of purchases this year, including buying out the interest of BSkyB.

But Ralif Safin, one of the founders of Russia’s largest oil company Lukoil, has contacted a London-based investment bank about a possible offer for the club.