SIR JIM PLANS TO BE IN TOTAL CONTROL UNITED nViewer

SIR JIM RATCLIFFE is hoping to have a major say on the football side of Manchester United if he completes a deal for 25 percent of the club.

- GIDEON BROOKS

The Ineos founder and petrochemicals billionaire (above) is expected to have his quarter share buy-out ratified by the club's board this week.

But despite what will be a minority holding, owners the Glazer family are understood to be ready to cede significant control of footballing matters to their new partner.

The long-running saga over a possible sale of United saw a Qatari banker pull out of the process on Saturday.

Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani had offered £5billion for the entire club, but lost patience according to sources who suggested the Glazers' valuation of the club was "fanciful and outlandish".

Ratcliffe, who has pursued the lesser objective of buying a stake in the Reds with a view to a longer term takeover, offered £1.4bn for 25 percent.