Kieran Maguire: Man United ‘smoking out’ new takeover bidders amid source’s Apple reveal
Those in charge of the Man United takeover are attempting to “smoke out” fresh interest in the club by amplifying fictitious stories linking them to blue-chip companies.
That is the view of finance guru Kieran Maguire, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the latest developments behind the scenes at Old Trafford.
United have been on the market since November last year, with genuine interest in a full takeover from private groups from the United States and the Middle East as well as from Britain’s richest man, Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
In the days after the Glazers posted the statement seeking investment, a string of enormous brands – Apple, Facebook, Google and Zara – were linked with a deal.
A source told this site that Raine Group, who have been tasked with overseeing the sale process, have deliberately helped to amplify these stories.
It is not hard to see their motivation, claims Maguire.
“It makes sense to a degree,” he told Football Insider’s Adam Williams.
“They are trying to smoke out interest by linking the brand with other big brands. That is why the rumours weren’t nipped in the bid.
“The Glazers want the maximum price for Unitec. More bidders equal more of an auction, so you can see the rationale behind it.
“The share price at the moment is being propped up by the prospect of investors being able to sell the shares.
“However, what can go up very quickly can go down very quickly as well.“
In other news, expert suggests Erik ten Hag is in secret Man United talks to tackle “gruesome” problem.