Sir Jim Ratcliffe has five Manchester United priorities

Sir Jim Ratcliffe will be as desperate as the Manchester United fans to get his stake in the Reds ratified.

On Friday, The Times reported INEOS' arrival could be confirmed before Christmas with some reports suggesting the deal for his 25 per cent acquisition may have been rubber stamped today. While there is still a long way to go, including Premier League ratification which could take up to eight weeks from the announcement date, Ratcliffe will be busy planning for what comes next.

MEN Sport has taken a look at the in-tray for the British billionaire and focussed on five priorities which need addressing.

READ MORE: How much is Ratcliffe worth?

READ MORE: Ratcliffe investment could be 'completed by Christmas'

Anyone who has travelled to Old Trafford recently will tell you how important this issue is. Once one of the iconic stadiums in the Premier League, the Theatre of Dreams has become a shadow of its former self.

With a leaky roof and cramped rows, United's ground pales in comparison to their rivals. However, it is not just Old Trafford which needs a refresh.

Carrington was targeted for criticism by Cristiano Ronaldo in November 2022 and little has changed to modify the training ground. Improvements to both will be welcomed by supporters, players and management alike.

After a season to forget so far for Erik ten Hag, there are few United fans who wondering if he is the right man for the job. Reports this month suggested Ratcliffe had met Graham Potter for talks over becoming the Dutchman's successor. At this stage, there are no suggestions Ten Hag is in peril but it may be wise for Ratcliffe to provide clarity on the manager situation to put any rumours to bed. Uncertainty over that position rarely leads to