US sports tycoon Mr Malcolm Glazer has raised his stake in Manchester United to 19.17 per cent in a move likely to reignite speculation of a takeover bid for the world's richest soccer club.
Mr Glazer, who owns American football's Tampa Bay Buccaneers, said today he had bought a further 2.41 million shares in the club, taking his holding to 50.27 million shares.
Mr Glazer said in March he had no plans to make a bid for Manchester United, although a source said at that time he could still make an offer in the future.
Manchester United, who finished third in England's Premier League in the 2003/04 season, has been the subject of persistent bid speculation as its two biggest shareholders have built up their stakes in recent months.
Irish race horse owners Mr John Magnier and Mr JP McManus own 28.9 per cent, although sources close to them have said they are long-term investors rather than potential bidders.
A profitable, debt-free business with one of the best known brands globally in sport, Manchester United is prized by investors for its marketing potential. But the club's fans are wary of a takeover, which they fear could reduce what little influence they still have.
At 9:30 a.m., shares in Manchester United were steady at 246 pence, valuing the club at about £645 million sterling.