Qataris ‘turn attention to new club with Neymar’s dad involved’ as Sir Jim Ratcliffe takes lead in Man Utd race
QATARI investors have reportedly turned their attention to a Brazilian club – with help from Neymar’s dad.
Qatar Sports Investors (QSI), chaired by PSG’s president Nasser Al-Khelaifi, are believed to be gearing up for a bid for Brazil side Santos.
It comes as a group of Qatari investors are locked in a bidding war to claim control of Manchester United.
British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe is also involved in the ownership fight after the Glazers put the Red Devils up for sale last year.
Brazilian outlet Globo claim that the QSI group are trying to line up a move to buy Santos.
The father of Neymar – who started his career at the South American club – is said to be involved in the bid and is acting as an intermediary.
The discussions are reported to have gotten to a stage so advanced that the group have even asked to see Santos’ club finances.
The report claims that QSI are taking inspiration from Manchester City’s multi-club model.
City’s club owners also own several other clubs around the world including New York City, Palermo in Italy, La Liga side Girona and Lommel SK in Belgium.
Meanwhile, the long-running fight to be the next owners of Man United continues at pace.
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The third and final deadline set by the Glazer family came earlier this month.
Ratcliffe is now believed to be the favourite in the race ahead of the summer transfer window opening.
United fans will be hoping the sale is soon complete so they can see the back of the unpopular Glazer family.
A settled ownership would also likely help the club kick on in the summer transfer window.