Thomas Zilliacus, the Finnish businessman who previously bid for Manchester United, has outlined his transfer strategy as he prepares to approach investors for a new takeover attempt. Zilliacus and his XXI Century Capital made an offer for the club in 2023 when the Glazer family signalled they would consider offers, but the bid came too late as Sir Jim Ratcliffe's Ineos secured a nearly 30 per cent stake.
Speaking exclusively to Mirror Football, Zilliacus criticised the club's recent recruitment under Ratcliffe, stating: 'Under Sir Jim Ratcliffe it hasn't been a roaring success. I don't think anybody could claim that. Unfortunately, in my opinion, there have been some poor choices regarding players.' He added that while it is early to judge manager Ruben Amorim, the squad needs improvement.
Zilliacus emphasised he would not prioritise signing superstars, using Neymar as an example: 'Even at his peak, I would never have brought a player like Neymar to Manchester United because that's a player who expects everybody else to play for him.' Instead, he would build around 'young, strong players who already have proven that they are really good top-class, but who still have a hunger to prove themselves.'
He identified Paris Saint-Germain winger Ousmane Dembele as the type of player he admires. Dembele, who cost Barcelona £125 million, has since revived his career at PSG. Zilliacus said: 'Ousmane Dembele is such a perfect example. Barcelona were pretty happy to see him go. Now he's got the Ballon d'Or and he's the star player in a team where he is allowed to play the way he should.'
Zilliacus confirmed he is open to working with investors and launching a new bid amid rumours of interest from the UAE. He stated he would assess all areas of the team, focusing on a balanced squad with a mix of hungry young talents and experienced players.
