Manchester United takeover news live Man Utd vs West Ham preview and Sir Jim Ratcliffe updates

Manchester United are back in Premier League action this afternoon as they begin their festive fixtures.

The Reds flew to London on Friday in preparation for the early kick-off with West Ham and should have travelled in high spirits. Last weekend, Erik ten Hag's men showed the grit and determination which has often been lacking as they drew 0-0 with Liverpool.

United's point caught many by surprise including Gary Neville who was not expecting the Reds to keep a clean sheet on Merseyside. But, the stalemate will only be beneficial if they can follow it up with three points against the Iron.

Victory in the capital will move United to within three points off the top four and would be a perfect start to the Christmas period. Elsewhere, the takeover shall continue to rumble onwards today.

Reports on Friday suggested official confirmation on the takeover deal could be agreed before Christmas. However, no official announcement regarding Sir Jim Ratcliffe's arrival was released.

Keep tabs on the latest takeover news and transfer rumours from United below.

United's share price rose yesterday after reports suggested the INEOS man could arrive at Old Trafford before Christmas.

Share price is often used as an indicator to judge the likelihood of a takeover as the new money injected into the business gives investors confidence.

Before they left for London, MEN Sport spotted 14 players enter the Airport to travel south.

Among them was Eriksen who returned to full training this week after a knee injury.

Take a look at who else we spotted here.

Hello and welcome to the United blog ahead of the first of the Reds' festive fixtures.

West Ham are the opponents this lunchtime and the clash should give us a good reading of how far