Here’s how Qatari takeover could create a major obstacle for Manchester United in signing Kylian Mbappe

UEFA has prohibited teams owned by the same family from conducting transfers.

Here’s how Qatari takeover could create a major obstacle for Manchester United in signing Kylian Mbappe

United, Sheikh Jassim and Kylian Mbappe look unlikely to happen (credits-reuters)

The sale of Manchester United is moving at a glacial pace. Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the British billionaire and INEOS CEO, is competing with Qatari royal Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani, and the Qatari entry seems to be in the lead. However even if the deal is successful for the royal, Manchester United will be unable to sign Kylian Mbappe who could have been a statement signing for the club.

This is because UEFA has prohibited teams owned by the same family from conducting transfers. To prevent this from occurring, United will have to demonstrate its independence from PSG’s Qatari owners. However, this rule can be sidelined if the Sheikh can conduct the acquisition of the club through a shell company.

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This restriction was recently witnessed when UEFA prohibited transfers between AC Milan and Toulouse. UEFA is worried that the two teams will be unable to operate independently since they have the same owners, RedBird Capital Partners. It has now been stated that the French club Toulouse has changed its board of directors in order to demonstrate that RedBird Capitals Partners have no control over the club’s operations.

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UEFA, on the other hand, is claimed to be unimpressed by the evidence and has barred the two clubs from selling and lending players to one other. However, both Milan and Toulouse will be eligible to compete in UEFA events next season. A statement from UEFA states: “The clubs will not transfer players to each other, whether permanently or on loan, directly or indirectly, until September 2024.” Thus, United will have to prove themselves to be independent if they want to land their target, Mbappe.

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Manchester United’s pursuit of Andre Onana entering the final stages

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United gunning for Onana (credits- The Sun)

Manchester United are making strides in bringing Inter Milan custodian Andre Onana to Old Trafford. After completing the acquisition of Mason Mount earlier this week, United is now rushing to complete their second signing of the summer. Football director John Murtough has been in talks with Inter.

According to Italian media, Onana has already met with United officials to negotiate personal conditions, since the custodian wants to transfer.  The two teams have yet to agree on a transfer cost, although talks are ongoing. Nonetheless, the Reds are said to be moving through with a deal to obtain the shot-stopper’s signature.

With David de Gea on his way out, United is in serious need of a new No.1. Andre Onana has been named their key target, with United trying tirelessly to get his services. Manager Erik Ten Hag has worked with the 27-year-old at Ajax and is excited to work with him again.