Saudi prince denies Sh492 billion Man United takeover
In this handout photograph taken on February 17, 2019 released by Prime Minister Office (PMO), Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman attends a meeting with Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan (unseen) at the Prime Minister House in Islamabad. PHOTO | AFP |
What you need to know:
- Saudi Arabia has been condemned for its human rights record and has faced scrutiny over the death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi at a Saudi embassy last year.
- In October, Manchester United pulled out of an investment forum in Saudi Arabia amid the fallout from Khashoggi's death.
Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman's media minister has denied reports linking him with a Sh492 billion (£3.8bn) takeover of Manchester United.
Rumours of his interest resurfaced over the weekend, although reports suggest the Glazers are not looking to sell.
United's American owners bought the club for Sh102 billion (£790m) in May 2005.
"Reports claiming that HRH the Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman intends on buying Manchester United are completely false," said Turki al-Shabanah.
"Manchester United held a meeting with PIF [Public Investment Fund] Saudi to discuss a sponsorship opportunity. No deal has materialised."
Prince bin Salman, 33, was appointed Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia in June 2017.
Saudi Arabia has been condemned for its human rights record and has faced scrutiny over the death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi at a Saudi embassy last year.
In October, Manchester United pulled out of an investment forum in Saudi Arabia amid the fallout from Khashoggi's death.
The Old Trafford club posted a record revenue of £208.6m for the second quarter of 2018 and earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization of £104.3m.
However, reports suggest the Glazers' takeover almost 14 years ago has come at a cost of more than £1billion to the club.
