Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani, one of Qatar’s biggest banks, has confirmed his foundation will bid to buy Manchester United.
The move comes ahead of Friday’s 22:00 GMT ‘soft deadline’ for submitting proposals.
It is the second bid made public after businessman Sir Jim Ratcliffe expressed his interest last month.
In a statement, the Qatari federation said: “The bid plans to return the club to its former glory.”
The Glazer family, who bought United in 2005, are considering selling the Old Trafford club as they “explore strategic alternatives”.
And the Qatari federation added: “The bid will be fully debt-free through Sheikh Jassim’s Nine Two Foundation, which will look to invest in the football teams, training centre, stadium and wider infrastructure, fan experience and communities the club supports.
“Bid’s vision is for Manchester United to be known for football excellence and regarded as the greatest football club in the world.”
Described as a lifelong Manchester United fan, Sheikh Jassim is the chairman of Qatari bank QIB and is the son of Qatar’s former prime minister.
The union’s statement did not provide any details on the amount proposed in the club’s bid.
At least two offers for United are expected from the United States, while there have been suggestions of interest from Saudi Arabia.
That means five parties could be trying to negotiate a full sale, with others looking to make a smaller investment to acquire a partial stake in the 20-time English league champions.
More to follow.
