In a stunning late development in the protracted Manchester United takeover saga, Finnish billionaire Thomas Zilliacus has launched a dramatic final bid to secure ownership of the iconic football club.
The chairman of investment group XXI Century Capital has confirmed his audacious offer, which promises to revolutionise fan engagement through an unprecedented ownership model. Zilliacus aims to split the club's ownership equally between his consortium and the global Manchester United supporter base.
A Revolutionary Approach to Football Ownership
Zilliacus's proposal represents a radical departure from traditional football club ownership structures. "My bid is built on the principle of fan participation," the entrepreneur declared. "Through a dedicated digital platform, supporters would have the opportunity to co-invest alongside our consortium, creating a truly inclusive ownership model."
The Finnish businessman emphasised that this approach would give fans "a genuine voice in shaping the club's future" while maintaining the financial stability and strategic direction necessary for success.
The Final Countdown in Takeover Battle
This eleventh-hour intervention comes as the Glazer family's prolonged sale process appears to be reaching its climax. Zilliacus joins Qatari banker Sheikh Jassim and British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe in the final bidding stage, though both have recently grown frustrated with the drawn-out negotiations.
Sources close to the process suggest that the current American owners are considering all options, including potentially remaining in control through minority investment rather than a full sale.
Vision for Manchester United's Future
Zilliacus outlined an ambitious plan for the club's redevelopment, with particular focus on modernising Old Trafford and the Carrington training facilities. "Manchester United deserves world-class infrastructure to match its global stature," he stated.
The Finnish bidder also pledged significant investment in the men's and women's first teams, academy development, and strengthening the club's commercial operations worldwide.
With the Glazers reportedly seeking around £6 billion for complete control, Zilliacus's final offer represents what could be the decisive move in one of football's most watched ownership battles. The coming days are expected to bring clarity to a process that has kept the football world waiting for months.
