Saudi Arabian official Turki Alalshikh, one of the most powerful figures in global boxing, has sparked speculation over a potential Manchester United takeover after posting a cryptic message on social media.
On Wednesday, Alalshikh took to X (formerly Twitter) to claim that the Premier League giants were in an “advanced stage” of being sold to a new investor.
He wrote:
“The best news I heard today is that Manchester United is now in an advanced stage of completing a deal to sell to a new investor. I hope he’s better than the previous owners.”
However, multiple sources close to Manchester United have since dismissed the claims, insisting that there is no ongoing takeover deal.
Who Is Turki Alalshikh?
Alalshikh, 44, is a senior Saudi government adviser and a key figure in Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s inner circle. He has become a leading force in the country’s efforts to expand its influence in global sport, particularly through boxing and football.
He previously owned Spanish club Almería from 2019 until earlier this year and briefly controlled Egyptian side Pyramids FC between 2018 and 2019. Reports in September linked him with a potential move to purchase Bristol City, a Championship club, although no bid has yet materialised.
From Boxing Promoter to Power Broker
Beyond football, Alalshikh has been instrumental in bringing world championship boxing to Saudi Arabia. He worked closely with prominent promoters like Eddie Hearn and Frank Warren.
Warren has defended his partnerships in the nation, such as playing the Saudi national anthem at international boxing events, while Hearn has called Alalshikh a “true boxing fan.”
Arguments and Rebuttals
Human rights groups have chastised Alalshikh for his close ties to the Saudi government despite his growing fame. Saudi Arabia has been accused by organizations like Amnesty International of using entertainment and sports to “sportswash” its image internationally, deflecting attention from persistent human rights violations, such as the treatment of women, the death penalty, and anti-LGBTQ+ legislation.
After serving as the head of the General Sports Authority, Alalshikh has been the Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA) since 2018. His work aligns closely with the kingdom’s Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to modernise Saudi society and reduce its economic dependence on oil.
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