Sheikh's net worth compared to Man United owners after cryptic takeover message

Turki Al-Sheikh's net worth compared to Man United owners after cryptic takeover message

Turki Al-Sheikh has joined the conversation surrounding Manchester United and a potential takeover of the club

Saudi Arabian billionaire Turki Al-Sheikh's net worth reportedly pales in comparison to that of current Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, following his cryptic message about the club's future. The Glazers currently have the ability to sell their entire stake in the club due to the activation of their 'drag along' rights.

This is a common practice in the business world, preventing majority owners from being held hostage by the whims of minority stakeholders. Despite the Glazers having the power to sell Ratcliffe's stake without his consent, there has been little discussion of this happening until Wednesday night.

In an unexpected tweet, Saudi businessman Al-Sheikh hinted that the club could soon be under new ownership. "The best news I heard today is that Manchester United is now in an advanced stage of completing a deal to sell to a new investor," he wrote.

"I hope he's better than the previous owners." With this in mind, MEN Sport has examined who Al-Sheikh is and how his wealth compares to those currently at the helm of United.

Who is Turki Al-Sheikh?

If you're a boxing enthusiast, Al-Sheikh will be familiar to you. As Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority, he is the founder of the Riyadh Season, a series of entertainment, cultural and sporting events used to promote Saudi Arabia.

The Riyadh Season has proven to be a financial success for the Middle Eastern nation, thanks to the lucrative offerings. Al-Sheikh has shown a keen interest in boxing and has arranged several high-profile bouts, including Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk and Canelo Alvarez vs Terence Crawford.

He's also managed to draw investment from WWE, with the professional wrestling giant hosting numerous Premium Live Events (PLEs or PPVs) in the country. This will soon include Wrestlemania, slated to take place in 2027.

In addition to combat sports, Al-Sheikh has ventured into football, having acquired Spanish club Almeria in 2019. The team currently ranks ninth in Spain's second-tier.

What is his net worth?

CEO Today magazine reported in 2024 that Turki Al-Sheikh's estimated net worth stands at around $2.8bn (£2.08bn). For comparison, Forbes estimates Ratcliffe's current worth at an impressive $17.2bn (£12.8bn).

As for the Glazers, their combined net worth is believed to be around $10bn (£7.46bn), according to Forbes.

Could Turki Al-Sheikh buy United?

While Al-Sheikh did not suggest that he is the potential buyer of United, it's unlikely he could afford to do so even if he wanted to. Clearly, his financial resources don't match those of the current owners.

His most viable option would be to join a consortium. However, there's no suggestion that he has any interest in owning the Reds.

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