Manchester United transfer news LIVE plus Marcus Rashford latest and Sir Jim Ratcliffe takeover stance

Sir Jim Ratcliffe would have seriously considered launching a takeover bid at Manchester United this summer had current owners - the Glazer family - wanted to sell.

The 69-year-old was reported to be interested in purchasing the Old Trafford giants two months ago, but has now broken his silence on those proposals. During an event hosted by The Financial Times, in association with his company Ineos on Tuesday night, Sir Jim was pressed on his beloved Reds.

As per the online stream, he said: "They don't want to sell it. If it had been for sale in the summer, yes, we would have probably had a go following on from the whole Chelsea thing, but we can't sit around hoping that one day Manchester United will become available."

When it comes to transfers, meanwhile, United will have to wait until January before striking-up any more recruits under Erik ten Hag. He signed six players this summer; Tyrell Malacia, Christian Eriksen, Lisandro Martinez, Casemiro, Antony and Martin Dubravka on a season-long loan from Newcastle.

TODAY'S BIG TALKING POINT. Antony has saved £200m embarrassment. Have your say here.

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Sir Jim Ratcliffe admits that he would have been open to pressing forward with a possible takeover at United had it been available this summer - but says the Glazer family do not want to sell.

Here's what the billionaire had to say at a Financial Times event on Tuesday night;

They don't want to sell it. If it had been for sale in the summer, yes, we would have probably had a go following on from the whole Chelsea thing, but we can't sit around hoping that one day Manchester United will be available.

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