Manchester United takeover latest as INEOS make £560m investment amid Sir Jim Ratcliffe wait

Sir Jim Ratcliffe's 25 per cent stake in Manchester United is hoped to be confirmed before the end of the year but delays are frustrating supporters.

Ratcliffe was identified as the sole candidate to invest in United back in October, following the withdrawal of Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al Thani from the bidding process. The INEOS chief is expected to invest around £1.4billion into the club and will take charge of footballing operations.

But a number of delays have caused concern among supporters, who want Ratcliffe to be able to influence United's January transfer activity. Reports have suggested full confirmation could come the week after next, but the Christmas period could also see it delayed until the new year.

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Here's the latest on the takeover front.

Ratcliffe's investment

Ratcliffe's INEOS company has continued it's expansion in the United States of America after agreeing a $700million (around £560m) deal for a chemicals plant in Texas.

INEOS confirmed on Saturday that it was set to purchase LyondellBasell ethylene oxide and derivatives business and production facility at Bayport. The deal builds on recent investments in America, including a $1.4bn purchase of Chesapeake Energy in May and a $500m purchase of an acetic acid plant in Texas in September.

Why Paul Mitchell is 'perfect' fit for United

Paul Mitchell has long been labelled 'The Man who could save Manchester United'.

His is a name that often pops up whenever there is talk of a structural overhaul or on the frequent occasions that United's lack of a long-term plan is made all too apparent.

Right now, he could be