Transfer Rumors: Manchester City eyes Toni Kroos, takeover talks for Manchester United, and private equity support for WSL relaunch

Posted : 14 October 2023

Manchester City is considering a potential move to acquire Real Madrid's Toni Kroos on a free transfer in the upcoming summer. Meanwhile, there are ongoing discussions regarding the takeover of Manchester United, with conflicting reports about the involvement of British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe in leading the pursuit. Additionally, the Football Association is exploring the possibility of securing private equity backing to support the Women's Super League (WSL) relaunch.

According to The Sun, Manchester City is eyeing a move to secure Toni Kroos, a serial Champions League winner, by offering a substantial annual salary of £13 million. The paper highlights that after clinching the Champions League last season and bolstering their squad with recent additions, including Josko Gvardiol, Matheus Nunes, Jeremy Doku, and Mateo Kovacic, City is now considering recruiting an experienced star.

Spanish outlet Defensa Central has reported that City is interested in Real Madrid's veteran midfielder Toni Kroos, and his wages could potentially double if he joins the Etihad once his contract with the Bernabeu expires.

On the other hand, The Mirror suggests that Sir Jim Ratcliffe is taking the lead in the pursuit of a Manchester United takeover. The Glazer family, owners of Manchester United, are reportedly set to hold a board meeting in the coming days to discuss fresh proposals from Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

His latest approach, involving an initial minority stake of 25 percent, appears to give him an advantage over rival bidder Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al Thani. Ratcliffe's earlier interest centered on acquiring the Glazers' 69 percent holding, as there have been indications of differences within the Glazer family regarding the sale of the club.

However, The Express suggests that Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani may actually be the frontrunner in the United takeover. Sheikh Jassim remains in contention to acquire the club, and he seems to believe he is the primary bidder in the running, possibly preparing a compelling offer that could sway the Glazers' decision.

Despite relative silence on the potential sale front, behind-the-scenes developments are ongoing as the Glazers approach a resolution regarding their 18-year tenure.

Furthermore, the Football Association is exploring private equity offers to fund the relaunch of the Women's Super League (WSL). American private equity firms have expressed interest in investing in the WSL for a 10-year period, anticipating significant growth.

This initiative is in response to challenges in securing the £25 million startup costs for the enhanced top-flight league planned for the 2024-25 season. The FA's preferred approach remains for clubs to take control, but time is running out to finalize an agreement.

Transfer Rumors: Manchester City eyes Toni Kroos, takeover talks for Manchester United, and private equity support for WSL relaunch

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