Apple exploring ‘possible takeover’ of Manchester United
The Glazer family is ready to sell the club
LONDON: Technology company Apple are considering a possible takeover of renowned English Premier League (EPL) club Manchester United.
According to a report by Manchester Evening News, Apple is among the parties interested in buying the club.
“Technology giants Apple are also understood to be exploring a possible takeover after United’s owners, the Glazer family, confirmed they were receptive to selling the club,” the report stated.
Manchester United´s owners said Tuesday they were ready to sell the club, potentially bringing down the curtain on an acrimonious 17 years under the Glazer family.
Before the Glazer family’s decision to sell the club, it was earlier revealed that star player Cristiano Ronaldo has left the side with "immediate effect."
Weeks of turbulence appeared to have come to an end when United announced Ronaldo´s contract had been terminated by mutual agreement to bring to an end his second spell at Old Trafford.
That dramatic announcement was eclipsed just hours later by the news the US-based Glazer family could also be on their way out.
"The board will consider all strategic alternatives, including new investment into the club, a sale, or other transactions involving the company," United said in a statement.
The Glazers have been unpopular with supporters ever since a £790 million ($934 million) leveraged takeover in 2005 burdened the club with huge debts.
Frustration towards the Americans has only grown during a nine-year decline in results on the pitch since Alex Ferguson´s retirement as manager in 2013.
Decline
The Red Devils have not won the Premier League title since Ferguson´s final campaign in 2012/2013 and have failed to win any trophy since 2017.
United currently sit fifth in the Premier League, 11 points behind leaders Arsenal.
"We will evaluate all options to ensure that we best serve our fans and that Manchester United maximizes the significant growth opportunities available to the club today and in the future," added Avram and Joel Glazer, the club´s executive co-chairmen and directors.
The statement also recognised the need for investment in stadium redevelopment.
Old Trafford remains the largest club stadium in England with a capacity of 74,000 but has not had a significant upgrade since 2006.
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