LSaudi Arabia’s influential sports chief, Turki Alalshikh, has claimed that Manchester United are in “advanced talks” with a new investor, sparking intense speculation over the club’s ownership future.

The remarks, made late Wednesday on Alalshikh’s X (formerly Twitter) account, suggest that a deal to bring fresh investment into Old Trafford is close to completion. He wrote: “The best news I heard today is that Manchester United is now in an advanced stage of completing a deal to sell to a new investor. I hope he’s better than the previous owners.”

اسعد خبر سمعته اليوم ان مانشستر يونايتد الان في مرحله متقدمه من اتمام صفقة بيعه لمستثمر جديد … يارب يكون احسن من الملاك السابقين🤷🏻‍♂️🙏🏻

— TURKI ALALSHIKH (@Turki_alalshikh) October 8, 2025

This unexpected statement has reignited debate about the role of current co-owners Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Glazer family, and whether United could be heading toward another dramatic ownership shake-up.

Who is Turki Alalshikh?

Alalshikh, 44, is the chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (GEA) and a central figure in the Kingdom’s efforts to promote sports and cultural events worldwide. He is the mastermind behind Riyadh Season, a global entertainment festival that has hosted football showcases, including Lionel Messi vs. Cristiano Ronaldo in 2023 and Inter Miami’s clash with Saudi clubs in 2024.

In boxing, Alalshikh has brokered blockbuster fights, raising his profile as a global sports powerbroker. His involvement in football has intensified speculation about Saudi Arabia expanding its Premier League footprint beyond Newcastle United, which is already majority-owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF).

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The Manchester United Context

Manchester United’s ownership has been under the microscope for years. In 2023, Ratcliffe’s Ineos Group acquired a 28.94% stake in the club for £1.25 billion, gaining control of football operations, recruitment, and infrastructure projects.

The Glazers, who have owned United since 2005, retained a majority stake, but Ratcliffe has been the public face of the club’s decision-making. His recent comments highlighted a “good working relationship” with the American family, making Alalshikh’s claim even more surprising.

Conflicting Signals and Denials

Despite Alalshikh’s post, Manchester United declined to comment when contacted by UK media. Ineos sources dismissed the takeover talk as untrue.

Yet, the timing of Alalshikh’s comments is notable. United are currently negotiating with Saudi officials over a lucrative mid-season friendly in Riyadh, reportedly worth £10 million, to offset losses after failing to qualify for European competition this season.

Some analysts suggest that Alalshikh’s statement could be linked to those talks, while others believe it signals Saudi Arabia’s long-term interest in adding another Premier League giant to its football portfolio.

United’s Financial Pressures

The club’s absence from Europe has cost them over £100 million in lost revenue, along with penalties on their Adidas sponsorship deal. Post-season tours in Asia have helped plug the gap, but the Glazers and Ratcliffe are under pressure to generate fresh funds.

This financial strain has fueled takeover rumors before, most notably the failed £5 billion bid by Sheikh Jassim Al-Thani of Qatar, which collapsed last year.

What Happens Next?

While there is no official confirmation of a sale, Alalshikh’s comments have raised eyebrows among United fans and football investors alike. His track record of delivering major sports deals means his words cannot be dismissed lightly.

Whether this is genuine inside knowledge or a strategic move tied to Riyadh Season remains to be seen, but one thing is certain, Manchester United’s ownership saga is far from over.

FAQ

Q1: Who is Turki Alalshikh?

Turki Alalshikh is Saudi Arabia’s sports and entertainment chief, overseeing Riyadh Season and organizing global boxing and football events.

Q2: Did Turki Alalshikh confirm Manchester United’s sale?

He claimed on X that United are in an “advanced stage” of selling to a new investor, though the club and Ineos sources denied the claim.

Q3: Are Manchester United being sold?

There is no official confirmation, but Alalshikh’s remarks have fueled speculation about fresh investment or potential ownership changes.

Q4: What is Manchester United’s current ownership?

The Glazer family hold majority control, while Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos own a 28.94% stake with influence over football operations.

Q5: Why would Saudi Arabia want to invest in Manchester United?

Saudi Arabia already owns Newcastle United but continues to expand its global sports influence. Owning Manchester United would mark another high-profile move.

Q6: What financial challenges does Manchester United face?

Missing out on Europe has cost United over £100m in lost revenue, forcing the club to explore friendlies, sponsorships, and new investment opportunities.