British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe has confirmed his desire to buy Manchester United from the Glazer family.

Reports emerged on Wednesday that the Glazers were seeking new investment and were prepared to sell a minority stake in the Red Devils, amid near-constant protests against their ownership from disgruntled United fans.

Now, a spokesperson for Ratcliffe has confirmed to The Times that the lifelong United fan, who failed with a bid to buy Chelsea earlier this summer, is prepared to invest with a view to complete ownership of the club.