Manchester United legend Sir Alex Ferguson has offered his two cents on Sir Jim Ratcliffe's impending arrival at Old Trafford.
The British billionaire is understood to be in the final stages of a £1.3billion deal that will see him acquire 25% of the Premier League giants. And big changes are already underway after it was confirmed last week that chief executive Richard Arnold is to leave the club by the end of 2023.
Having overseen a golden era of success during his 27-year tenure at the Red Devils helm, it will hurt Ferguson as much as any to have witnessed the club's decline over the past decade. And the Scot gave his early assessment of what might be expected with a new face entering the boardroom.
READ MORE: Glazers are still a poisonous smell at Man Utd one year on from fans' dream day
READ MORE: Ex-boxing pro offers to train Roy Keane for Jason McAteer fight with 'sneaky elbows'
Ferguson, in an interview courtesy of Gambling Zone, said: "I am still a director of the club and I know Jim [Ratcliffe] well. We shall have to see what he does, but I am optimistic."
Many fans at Old Trafford had hoped for a total takeover of the club to bring an end to the Glazer family's involvement. However, the Americans are now seemingly set to extend their stay after Ratcliffe's offer of a minority purchase apparently appealed more.
Do you think the Ratcliffe minority sale was a positive move for Manchester United? Let us know in the comments section below.
It's reportedly possible that Ratcliffe's share in the club will grow over time and eventually lead to a majority buy-out. However, that won't appease the many supporters who have campaigned for years to get the Glazers away from the helm.
Join the Daily Star's WhatsApp for the sexiest headlines, showbiz gossip and lots more
The Daily Star is now on WhatsApp and we want you to join us!
Through the app, we'll send you the sassiest showbiz stories, some naught headline and a seismic smattering of aliens...along with the latest breaking news of course.
To join our community, all you have to do to join is click on this link, select 'Join Chat' and you're in!
No one will be able to see who has sign up and no one can send messages except for the Daily Star team. We also treat our community members to competitions, special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners.
If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose Exit group. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
Ratcliffe has already enjoyed moderate success as owner of Ligue 1 outfit Nice, as well as having other sports investments in cycling, rugby and sailing. Soon after Arnold's departure from United was confirmed, it was reported football director John Murtough will follow him out of the exit, though that's yet to be made official.
Approval from one of the club's major figures before he's even step foot in the building is an early boon for Ratcliffe ahead of his stake being ratified. And fans will hope Ferguson's seal of approval could be the first spark to a resurgence at Old Trafford.
