"Manchester United has been subject to numerous takeover attempts in its rich and controversial history. In the early 1980s, Robert Maxwell chanced his arm, so too did Rupert Murdoch with BSkyB in 1998. We all know about the Glazer family's seizing of control in 2005 and Sir Jim Ratcliffe's recent acquisition of a minor but controlling share. Still, perhaps the most infamous of all remains Michael Knighton's fascinating attempt to buy Manchester United in the summer of 1989."
In this episode Ed and Wayne discuss the story behind Michael Knighton's attempt to buy United in 1989. It's a wild story with some amazing original audio in the sister episode in this series.
00:00 Introduction to Michael Knighton's Takeover
02:00 Memories and Reactions
03:58 Knighton's Background and United's Financial Struggles
06:03 The Bizarre Publicity Stunt
07:31 The Financial Promises and Player Signings
10:11 The Collapse of the Deal
12:00 The Aftermath and Knighton's Legacy
22:10 Other Takeover Attempts in United's History
28:25 Reflections on Ownership and Conclusion
The Lost Tapes is written by Wayne Barton. Narrated by Patrick Barclay. Produced by Ed Barker, Studio 1878.
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