Manchester United owner among investors exploring potential Al-Ittihad takeover

Al-Ittihad’s ownership process has entered a new phase, with several investment groups examining a possible purchase of the Saudi club, including a newly reported alliance involving the owner of Manchester United and a Saudi partner.

Potential investors have already visited Al-Ittihad and reviewed information about the club, according to the Saudi programme Nadina. The visits are part of a wider assessment of the club and suggest that interest in transferring its ownership has moved beyond initial discussions.

The reported Manchester United-linked group is a new entrant to the potential takeover process. It is competing with other parties that are also studying the opportunity and considering a bid for ownership of one of Saudi Arabia’s most prominent football clubs.

Nadina also reported the existence of another investment alliance made up of a Saudi investment fund, an American investor and several businessmen from the real-estate sector. The involvement of multiple groups highlights the scale of the potential contest for control of Al-Ittihad.

No final agreement has been reached, and the ownership transfer remains subject to the completion of official procedures and a definitive deal. The identity of any successful bidder will therefore depend on the outcome of those discussions and the formal steps that follow.

The interest comes during a period of major change in Saudi football, as clubs have increasingly become commercial and sporting assets with significant investment potential. That development has made ownership of a club such as Al-Ittihad particularly attractive to investors from inside and outside Saudi Arabia.

Al-Ittihad’s appeal is linked to several factors, including its large supporter base, its historic status and the strength of its brand. The club also has an established presence in domestic and continental football, giving it value beyond its results on the pitch.

The latest developments mean the proposed takeover of Al-Ittihad is now one of the most closely watched ownership stories in Saudi football. More than one alliance is understood to be assessing the club, while potential investors continue to examine its structure, value and future prospects.

The process is still at the evaluation stage, however, and the reported interest does not yet amount to a completed transaction. Al-Ittihad’s next ownership chapter will be determined only after the relevant authorities complete their review and the parties reach a final agreement.