United Fans Oppose Take-Over

Manchester United fans are organising shareholders and fans to fend off any bid for their club from US billionaire Malcolm Glazer.



Malcolm Glazer is believed to be the man behind an approach made to Manchester United's plc board to buy a majority sharehold of the club.

"We have got various plans going forward at the moment," Nick Towle, chairman of Shareholders United, told BBC News Online.

"Fans are aware of the dangers and pitfalls of the club falling into the hands of Mr Glazer or some other individual."

"Mr Glazer would have to take out a number of loans to achieve any takeover, which would turn United from a debt-free club into a debt-laden model."

Mr Towle insists Mr Glazer is gambling on a break-up of current television rights, with clubs earning more control and the possible formation of a European Super League.

"That could double the value of the club, and Mr Glazer is looking very clearly at the bottom line. However he does not care about football or this club," said Mr Towle.