Qataris handed MAJOR boost in bid to buy Man United as there is NO Saudi-backed offer on the table

There has been no Saudi-backed move for Manchester United, in a major boost for the chances of the Qatari bid for the club.

Sportsmail understands that, despite parties from the middle east country expressing an initial interest and accessing financial data, no offer has been forthcoming.

It is thought that, while the opportunity was looked at, the recent Saudi-based takeover of Newcastle United – and the conflict of interest that would have generated – made the situation unpalatable.

That news will no doubt go down well with those working on the Qatar bid – first reported by this newspaper.

On Friday’s soft deadline Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad bin Jaber Al Thani announced his intention to acquire ‘100 per cent of the club’ and restore it to the summit of world football.

The Qatari bid for Manchester United has been handed a boost as there is no Saudi-backed offer

The Glazer family are selling Manchester United and have had multiple offers for the club

While there are numerous offers of investment in exchange for a partial stake in United, Qatar face opposition from Ineos chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe and unnamed American groups for full control.

Ratcliffe wants to take a majority share, while the Qataris have disclosed that they have submitted an offer for 100 per cent of the club. Giant US hedge fund Elliott has also offered to provide financing for a bid that would not be a full takeover.

Those involved with the Qatar bid remain quietly confident of success ahead of what could be another two or three rounds of bidding.

Yesterday, the Manchester United Supporters Trust released a statement on the situation.

It read: ‘At the commencement of the sale process, MUST was very clear about our list of asks for any new owner of Manchester United. 

Those involved with the Qatar bid remain quietly confident of their offer being successful

Ineos chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe (pictured) and unnamed American groups are also in the running

‘These were to restore the club to the top of European football, invest in the teams, the wide club and the stadium, to ensure financial stability and to work in true partnership with fans at all times. These principles have been backed to date by 150 fan groups from all across the world.

‘Any bid will be judged against these criteria, but with the news of the specific bids coming in, further considerations arise.’

The statement also highlighted ‘questions over sporting integrity’ given Ratcliffe and Qatar’s relationships with other clubs. 

It added: ‘We also note the importance that any owner respects the rights of all people, particularly women and the LGBTQ+ community. Concerns have been raised by other fans groups which we fully support.’