Amazon are reportedly one company in the mix to buy Manchester United. The Red Devils are on the market at present, with the Glazers announcing their plans to part ways with the fallen giants last month. However, while the retailers have the wealth to complete a deal, it’s possible the issues at Old Trafford could actually end up preventing such a business transaction from happening…
The Glazers confirmed their plans to sell United last month, saying in a statement: “The strength of Manchester United rests on the passion and loyalty of our global community of 1.1 billion fans and followers.
“As we seek to continue building on the Club’s history of success, the Board has authorised a thorough evaluation of strategic alternatives.
“We will evaluate all options to ensure that we best serve our fans and that Manchester United maximises the significant growth opportunities available to the Club today and in the future.
“Throughout this process we will remain fully focused on serving the best interests of our fans, shareholders, and various stakeholders.”
Express Sport now takes a look at four things that could, however, end up deterring Amazon from purchasing United.
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The debt
Let’s start with the most obvious.
United have, for years, been seeing their debt increase. The Glazers haven’t helped matters, especially when you consider how much they’ve taken in dividends.
The Red Devils’ debt is now at nearly £1billion. That’s an astronomical figure, one any new owners will have to deal with when they walk in the door.
£580m of that is from the Glazers’ 2005 takeover, while United also owe £250m on transfer deals.
It’s an added expense any new owner will have to deal with and Amazon, as a result, could be forgiven for turning away from the club – regardless of their huge financial might.
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The Old Trafford and Carrington factor
Another thing the next owners of United will have to do is revamp Old Trafford.
Though there’s been talk of the Red Devils potentially getting a new stadium, it seems as though they’d rather upgrade on what the club have already got.
Old Trafford used to be one of the grandest arenas in the world but, compared to rivals such as Arsenal and Tottenham, it now pales in comparison – even if it can boast higher attendances on match days.
Carrington also needs some improving.
Cristiano Ronaldo vented his unhappiness at the facilities and United have taken steps towards making things better. Much work remains to do, however, to bring it up to the level of their rivals.
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The pressure
Playing for United brings enough pressure. Owning them, even more.
The Glazers have, for years, found themselves in the spotlight. Every decision they’ve made has been scrutinised, whether it’s right or wrong.
Do Amazon really need that when they’re already such a successful business?
Sure, their net worth isn’t as high as it was a couple of years ago. But they’re a juggernaut, a stable one at that, with no rivals ready to take them on.
Buying United would put Amazon on the map like ever before. Once on there, however, they may find out there’s no where they can hide…
Squad investment needed
United splurged £260million on transfers back in the summer, making it their biggest ever.
But, still, the squad requires sizeable investment if they’re to challenge Manchester City in the coming years after so long in the wilderness.
Amazon would, on top of spending money on United’s facilities, need to make sure they bring in some A-listers – or players Erik ten Hag feels he needs.
United need a top goalkeeper and deadly striker. Neither come cheap, especially in today’s world.
That’s another factor that could well deter potential suitors from coming to the Red Devils’ rescue and pushing the Glazers out the door once and for all.
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