Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani could reportedly approach the Glazer family directly to hold talks over a takeover of Manchester United.

On Friday, Sheikh Jassim and Sir Jim Ratcliffe both made improved offers for the Red Devils, with Raine Group, who are working on a sale, currently assessing the bids on the table.

At one stage, Sheikh Jassim was viewed as the clear favourite to buy Man United, with the Qatari banker looking to purchase 100% of the club, while he has also vowed to clear their debts and heavily invest in Old Trafford and the Carrington training complex.

However, Ratcliffe's offer has reportedly valued the club higher than the one submitted by Sheikh Jassim, and the British billionaire only wants a controlling stake of the Red Devils, which could see the Glazers keep a minority shareholding of around 20%.

According to journalist Ben Jacobs, the next week is likely to be 'key', with a preferred bidder potentially being named in the early stages of this month.

Jacobs claims that Sheikh Jassim's team could approach the Glazers directly in the hope of striking a deal, with intermediaries being removed from the negotiations.

The Qataris are also thought to be considering bypassing Raine Group, with Sheikh Jassim refusing to give up on a deal despite Ratcliffe now seemingly taking the lead in terms of a potential takeover.

Last November, the Glazers revealed that they were open to selling the 20-time English champions, and there has been a host of speculation surrounding the future of the club in recent months.

Man United co-owners Joel Glazer and Avram Glazer are thought to be now looking to bring in investment, but siblings Kevin, Edward, Bryan and Darcie would prefer a full sale.

The club's supporters held a protest against the Glazers ahead of Sunday's Premier League clash with Aston Villa, which was decided by a first-half goal from Bruno Fernandes.

Any deal which involves the Glazer family staying on is likely to prove to be incredibly unpopular with the fans, who have consistently held demonstrations against the American owners in recent years.

The summer transfer window will open next month, and Ratcliffe would allegedly want immediate control of transfers should he be successful in completing a takeover.

Man United will be aiming to further strengthen their grip on a top-four spot in the Premier League table when they head to Brighton & Hove Albion on Thursday night.