Sheffield United's sister club 'yearning for a takeover' as talks with buyers continue

The Belgians, who like United are part of the United World network established by the Saudi Arabian, are “yearning for a takeover” according to one prominent newspaper in Antwerp; where the team is based.

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With general manager Frederic Van den Steen admitting Beerschot’s ambitions will remain “modest” until a deal is reached, many members of the coaching and playing staffs are said to be concerned about the possible ramifications should a sale not be processed soon.

The situation at the Olympisch Stadion mirrors the one at Bramall Lane, where Prince Abdullah has held discussions about selling United with two consortiums from the US and another based in the Middle East.

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“Obviously we feel the pressure,” Van den Steen said. “Everyone is worried and impatient; the coach, the players, the supporters.

“I know no one likes to hear that message, but we still ask for a little patience. We don’t want to put the backs of potential new owners against the wall.”

Beerschot have just sanctioned the departures of several influential players after failing to gain promotion back to the Jupiler Pro League last term. Like United, they spent a period of the campaign under a transfer embargo after failing to keep up on their repayments relating to previous purchases.

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Chateauroux, the French-arm of UW, are now facing financial issues of their own after being demoted by that country’s financial regulators although that decision has since been appealed. Officials there have suggested the necessary paperwork is now complete and in place.

“Two potential investors are in a final phase: one German and one American,” Francis Vrancken, Beerschot’s chairman, said. “But we don't want to rush anyone and we won't let ourselves be rushed either. In the course of the coming weeks, we expect a non-binding offer from at least one of those two parties. This week? That's premature. As I said, we must not rush this process.”

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