Manchester United legend David Beckham has been approached by an unidentified consortium from the United Arab Emirates to front a potential £5 billion takeover of the club, according to reports. The 50-year-old Inter Miami owner has been critical of the Glazer family's ownership in the past, and this move could pave the way for his return to Old Trafford in an ambassadorial role.
Beckham previously told The Athletic that the Glazers should leave the club, stating: 'I think so. I think it's purely because the fans want it. Once you lose the fans, especially at a club like Manchester United, it's hard to get them back.' He acknowledged the financial success under the Glazers but insisted change is needed.
The former England captain also did not rule out a future return to Manchester United in some capacity. 'I haven't been approached and I suppose any involvement with Manchester United would mean the world to me,' he said. 'But who knows? We'll see what happens in the next few weeks or months.'
Sir Jim Ratcliffe's Ineos group acquired a minority 27.7% stake in February 2024, which has since grown to nearly 29%. However, on-field performances have not improved, with the team finishing 15th in the Premier League last season and losing the Europa League final.
The Glazer family, who bought the club for £790 million in 2005, are reportedly only willing to consider offers exceeding £5 billion for their stake—more than double the club's current stock market valuation of around £2 billion.
