Man United minority shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe is contemplating the “sale” of Ligue One side Nice, according to reports in France.

L’Informe claim that the billionaire has instructed financial services and asset management firm Lazard to perform a “strategic review” of his stake in the club.

It’s likely that Ratcliffe will either dilute his shares in Nice or simply sell his entire holding, depending on the level of interest.

Based on L’Informe‘s information, it seems the owner of another Premier League team could be prepared to take the club off his hands so he can focus on Man United.

Newcastle’s owners are said to be in the mix

Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) are reportedly the favourites to buy Nice if and when Ratcliffe decides to sell off his stake.

Followers of English football will be aware that they already own Newcastle United Football Club, having taken over from Mike Ashley in 2021.

L’Informe say that PIF are “interested” in Nice, although it is not known how far down the line they are in terms of actually buying out Ratcliffe.

How could this affect Man United?

Ratcliffe’s ownership of Nice has already led to one conflict of interest. The Red Devils were keen on signing Jean-Clair Todibo from the French club last summer. However, UEFA stepped in to stop such a move going ahead. The centre-back eventually joined West Ham instead. The sale of the team should ensure that no similar issues are faced in the future if United decide to sign another player.

Fans will also, of course, hope that the money received from selling Nice would allow Ratcliffe more flexibility in terms of devoting funds to United, which could be used to build a new stadium and other facilities.

Find out who is in Manchester United’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here