Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani had pushed for a full takeover of Manchester United, but another offer has presented itself after it emerged that bid would be unsuccessful
West Ham United could be about to present Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani with a route into Premier League football after his failure to buy Manchester United, it has been claimed.
Qatari banker Sheikh Jassim was among the frontrunners for a United takeover after the Glazer family revealed in November 2022 that they were open to potential investment. Unlike fellow bidder Sir Jim Ratcliffe, he was keen on a full takeover rather than taking a smaller stake.
According to The Sun, the Sheikh could move for Vanessa Gold’s shares after previously showing interest in West Ham. Gold took control of her father David’s stake in the club after his death in January, but is now open to selling a portion of her holding.
“I would consider selling a proportion of our shares to the right partner. I have spoken to each of the other three major shareholders at West Ham United, David Sullivan, Daniel Křetínský and Tripp Smith, who have been very supportive,” Gold, who owns around 25 percent of the club, said in a statement.
“Any transaction to purchase some of our shares will be with my father’s legacy at the forefront of my mind which, of course, prioritizes his beloved West Ham United. I have appointed Rothschild & Co to advise us on any discussions and will keep the other shareholders, the Club and our supporters updated on any significant developments.”
West Ham’s ownership is split between a number of owners, with more than half possessions taken over by David Sullivan and the Gold family following their 2010 takeover. Sullivan owns just shy of 39 percent, but the Hammers also took significant investment from Czech billionaire Kretinsky in 2021.
Mohammed Kudus and Jarrod Bowen scored second-half goals to add to an own goal from Ben White as West Ham beat Arsenal 3-1 at the London Stadium. Erik ten Hag’s United, meanwhile, fell to a limp 3-0 loss at home to Newcastle – their second successive game without finding the net.
West Ham’s next game comes away to Brentford, before they welcome Olympiacos to East London in the Europa League. Ten Hag’s side are also in the capital over the weekend, traveling to Fulham, before jetting off to Copenhagen for an important Champions League group game.
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