In a dramatic return to the Manchester United saga, former takeover bidder Thomas Zilliacus has tabled a staggering new £375 million proposal for the club, this time in the form of a sponsorship deal, and has publicly offered his help to current co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
A New £375 Million Proposal for United
The Finnish entrepreneur, who competed against Ratcliffe and Sheikh Jassim for control of the club in 2023, has now shifted strategy. Instead of a full acquisition, Zilliacus is proposing a five-year, $500 million (approximately £375 million) sponsorship agreement through his company, XXI Century Capital Group.
Zilliacus framed the offer as a "Christmas present" to the club, emphasising his goal is not ownership but strengthening United's financial foundation. "It's about how we make Manchester United so strong financially that they can become the number one club, not only in England, but in Europe," he told the Manchester Evening News.
Fan Engagement at the Core of the Deal
The substantial sponsorship would be centred around a global fan engagement programme, which Zilliacus claims can activate the club's massive worldwide supporter base in "a very interesting way." The funds, he argues, would allow United to significantly strengthen their squad and pursue other strategic projects.
The branding could come from various entities within his group, including a specific programme called 'Champion Circle'. This marks a significant pivot from his original 2023 bid, which was a supporter-driven model he claimed could generate up to £15 billion for United before he ultimately withdrew from the process.
An Open Hand to Sir Jim Ratcliffe
Crucially, Zilliacus extended an olive branch to Sir Jim Ratcliffe, whose INEOS group secured a 27.7% stake and sporting control at Old Trafford nearly two years ago. He expressed a strong desire to collaborate, recalling his plea during the original takeover battle for the bidders to work together for the club's benefit.
"I would love to be working with Sir Jim Ratcliffe," Zilliacus stated. "You usually get better results when you work together." He outlined areas where he believes his expertise could be valuable, including player acquisition, enhancing the fan experience, and even the redevelopment of Old Trafford, citing his experience in sports arena development.
However, he was clear he would not seek a formal decision-making role, instead offering his ideas and advice. "I would not impose," he said, framing the sponsorship as a gateway to a partnership that would be a "win-win for all parties." This new move reignites the financial narrative around Manchester United as Ratcliffe's project continues to take shape.
