Manchester United could finally be sold by the Glazers after 17 years of ownership.
Red Devils supporters have been calling for a takeover for a number of years.
And now they may get their wish as the Glazers have announced they are “explore strategic alternatives for the club”.
The controversial American owners are prepared to sell the club outright, with a deal expected to be worth around £9BILLION.
That would make United the most valuable sports team in the world, eclipsing the Dallas Cowboys who are said to be worth £7.23bn.
A statement from the club read: “Manchester United plc, one of the most successful and historic sports clubs in the world, announces today that the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”) is commencing a process to explore strategic alternatives for the club.
“The process is designed to enhance the club’s future growth, with the ultimate goal of positioning the club to capitalize on opportunities both on the pitch and commercially.
“As part of this process, the Board will consider all strategic alternatives, including new investment into the club, a sale, or other transactions involving the Company.
“This will include an assessment of several initiatives to strengthen the club, including stadium and infrastructure redevelopment, and expansion of the club’s commercial operations on a global scale, each in the context of enhancing the long-term success of the club’s men’s, women’s and academy teams, and bringing benefits to fans and other stakeholders.”
Avram and Joel Glazer added: “The strength of Manchester United rests on the passion and loyalty of our global community of 1.1 billion fans and followers.
“As we seek to continue building on the Club’s history of success, the Board has authorized a thorough evaluation of strategic alternatives.
“We will evaluate all options to ensure that we best serve our fans and that Manchester United maximizes the significant growth opportunities available to the Club today and in the future.
“Throughout this process we will remain fully focused on serving the best interests of our fans, shareholders, and various stakeholders.”
If the Glazers do sell, it would end a decade-long feud between the family and the club’s supporters.
