After The Glazers revealed their intention to sell Manchester United, David Beckham is said to be open to negotiations with possible purchasers.
According to the Financial Times, the United icon is willing to meet with potential buyers of the club.
The report states: “The former England captain’s history with United and affinity with its fans could prove vital to any bidders if the Glazers go ahead with a deal, the people said.”
“The current owners said they would “consider all strategic alternatives, so an outright sale is not guaranteed.”
“One banker close to the process said United could be sold for close to £7bn.
“A bidding war could send it higher, they added.”
“However, some footballing finance experts have said that even a £4bn-£5bn price tag was too high for a club that was unprofitable last year. ”
“At these valuations, prospective owners need to have deep pockets, with investors perhaps based in the US or the Middle East eyeing the football club, analysts said.”
“While Beckham alone might not have the wealth to buy Man United, his global reach and affinity with the fans could prove to be a huge boost to any buying parties.”
The Glazers, who paid £790 million for Manchester United in 2005, placed the club up for sale on Tuesday. The family is seeking up to £8 billion to sell the club.
In other news, British millionaire and longstanding Manchester United supporter Sir Jim Ratcliffe is preparing to make a bid to take control the club following his failed effort in the summer. He also attempted and failed to purchase Chelsea last season.
Ratcliffe is the owner of the petrochemical behemoth Ineos and one of the world's wealthiest individuals.