Sir Jim Ratcliffe makes first Man Utd visit after share purchase
- Ratcliffe has purchased a 25% stake in Man Utd
- British billionaire and INEOS will control football operations at Old Trafford
- Premier League approval of the deal could take up to eight weeks
By Tom Gott
Sir Jim Ratcliffe and key members of his INEOS team made their first visit to Manchester United on Tuesday as they prepare to take control of proceedings at Old Trafford.
Ratcliffe has agreed a deal to buy 25% of United from the Glazer family but cannot formally start work at the club until the Premier League have completed their Owners' and Directors test to confirm the British billionaire's suitability to lead a team.
In the meantime, Ratcliffe and a number of INEOS officials visited Old Trafford on Tuesday to begin the initial settling-in process and evaluations of the club.
Several sources state Ratcliffe was joined by INEOS director of sport Sir Dave Brailsford and executive Jean-Claude Blanc, both of whom will eventually take up roles at United once Premier League approval is given.
With the Premier League process likely to take up to eight weeks, Ratcliffe and his team will hold a number of meetings across both Old Trafford and the Carrington training ground.
Until the Premier League have approved INEOS' arrival, United's current hierarchy remain in control of all football matters at Old Trafford, although documentation of the purchase agreement shows United must consult INEOS on all business matters before the minority takeover is formally finalised.
Among the immediate tasks at hand is a decision on the future of winger Jadon Sancho, who has been frozen out of the first-team picture since his public clash with manager Erik ten Hag since September.
United are in talks with Borussia Dortmund over a loan departure for the Englishman but will have to discuss all plans with INEOS officials until the share purchase is completed.
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