Manchester United takeover news LIVE - Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Sheikh Jassim updates as transfer window claim made

Manchester United's protracted takeover process is now one week away from entering its ninth month.

Current owners the Glazer family announced on November 22 of last year that they would seek 'to explore strategic alternatives for the club'. In a statement, the owners confirmed: "As part of this process, the Board will consider all strategic alternatives, including new investment into the club, a sale, or other transactions involving the Company."

The announcement was greeted with widespread relief by United's fanbase, with many hoping the club would finally be rid of its much-maligned US owners. However, supporters are yet to see whether the Glazer family will depart and herald in a new era for the club under new owners.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Sheikh Jassim are widely believed to be the frontrunners to take over, although the Glazers remaining cannot be ruled out. The Manchester Evening News will keep you posted throughout the day with any takeover-related news.

Follow all of the day's updates below:

Manchester United's new owners may not have time to influence the club's summer transfer window, it has been claimed.

The Glazers are yet to confirm who could take over at Old Trafford despite announcing their intention to 'seek strategic alternatives' all the way back in November. And despite the protracted process, new owners may not even be in place by the end of the current transfer window according to one prominent journalist.

Sports broadcaster Ben Jacobs told GiveMeSport:

The good news for Manchester United is that they have been able to move in the transfer market, which was always the case regardless of any prospective new owner.

But the bad news for Manchester United, in terms of the long-term clarity, is that