The Americans bought the Old Trafford outfit for GBP790 ($1.34bn) in 2005
Manchester United owners, the Glazer family say they are considering selling the club as they ”explore strategic alternatives.”
The news of the sale comes amid protest from fans against their ownership.
According to reports monitored on Sky News, this could include a “full-blown auction” which would bring about new owners – with a sale expected to be worth £9bn.
That would make United the most valuable sports team in the world, eclipsing the Dallas Cowboys who are said to be worth £7.23bn.
A statement from the club read: “Manchester United plc, one of the most successful and historic sports clubs in the world, announces today that the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”) is commencing a process to explore strategic alternatives for the club.
“The process is designed to enhance the club’s future growth, with the ultimate goal of positioning the club to capitalize on opportunities both on the pitch and commercially.
As part of this process, the Board will consider all strategic alternatives, including new investment into the club, a sale, or other transactions involving the Company.
“This will include an assessment of several initiatives to strengthen the club, including stadium and infrastructure redevelopment, and expansion of the club’s commercial operations on a global scale, each in the context of enhancing the long-term success of the club’s men’s, women’s and academy teams, and bringing benefits to fans and other stakeholders.”
Executive Co-Chairmen and Directors, Avram Glazer and Joel Glazer said: “The strength of Manchester United rests on the passion and loyalty of our global community of 1.1 billion fans and followers.
