First Twitter, now Man U?
Rumors persist that Twitter owner, Tesla creator and uber-wealthy Elon Musk is considering a bid to buy Manchester United, one of the world’s premier soccer clubs.
A recent Daily Mail report noted Musk is believed to be “monitoring the situation closely,” per sources. The Associated Press also detailed the rumors about Musk becoming a soccer owner.
The AP noted that months ago, Musk posted on Twitter that he was buying the team. He later said he was joking.
The Glazer family – which owns the Tampa Bay Buccaneers – has announced it is considering selling the English Premier Club. There is a soft deadline of Feb. 17 for the first round of proposals for the club, according to the BBC.
Man U has an estimated price tag of $6 billion or more.
There have been various investors rumored as potential buyers, including groups from the Middle East. English businessman Jim Ratcliffe has also expressed an interest in acquiring the club. But Musk’s name keeps popping up as a potential bidder.
Musk acquired Twitter last year for $44 billion, so a purchase of Man U would seem small by comparison.
Musk, who has an estimated worth of $193.3 billion, per Forbes.com, has said that Manchester United was his favorite team while growing up. Now he has just days to decide whether to get involved in purchasing the team. If he does, it will likely be met with mixed reactions.
Musk has deep pockets to keep Man U among the sport’s best teams. But there would be concerns that he could be stretched thin with Twitter, Tesla, the team and other ventures.
Others have also criticized how he slashed staff and seemingly made changes at Twitter on a whim. He has also frequently posted controversial opinions on Twitter and been accused of spreading misinformation.
For now, Musk is mum on the sale. If he does bid, he’ll likely make sure everyone knows — starting on Twitter.
