Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has suffered a major blow after the proposed sale of French club Nice collapsed at the last minute. The petrochemicals tycoon, who also holds a majority stake in the Ligue 1 side, had been eager to offload the club as his focus shifts to Old Trafford.
Deal falls through
An American consortium had been in advanced talks to purchase Nice, but the deal has now collapsed entirely, according to reports from Nice Matin via Get Football News France. Ratcliffe and INEOS had set a firm deadline of June 15 to finalise the sale, but the prospective buyers were unable to provide the necessary financial guarantees and sporting stability assurances.
The consortium had even toured Nice's training ground, but at the eleventh hour, the deal fell apart. This marks a significant setback for Ratcliffe, who has been looking to reduce his involvement with the French club since completing his investment in Manchester United at the end of 2023.
Growing frustration
Ratcliffe has become increasingly detached from Nice, admitting last year: "I don't particularly enjoy going to watch Nice because there are some good players, but the level of football is not high enough for me to get excited." This sentiment has left supporters frustrated with the club's direction.
Having already reduced his asking price to facilitate a sale, it now appears likely that Nice will remain under INEOS ownership for the 2026/27 season. The club narrowly avoided relegation on the final day of the campaign, highlighting the need for significant changes.
Managerial uncertainty
Former Leicester and Southampton manager Claude Puel took temporary charge last season, but is unlikely to be appointed permanently. L'Equipe reports that Nice had approached Liam Rosenior, who had impressed at Strasbourg before a brief and troubled stint at Chelsea. However, Rosenior is now looking to take a break from football entirely.
United progress
On a brighter note for Ratcliffe, Manchester United's summer transfer strategy is progressing smoothly. The club has secured an agreement to sign Ederson from Atalanta and is intensifying efforts to sign West Ham's Mateus Fernandes, with Arsenal refusing to meet his £80m price tag.
