A new bid to acquire Manchester United is understood to be in preparation. The development emerges as the club handles a difficult start to the Premier League season, sitting 13th with just four points from four matches.

United's immediate focus is on the pitch, where they have lost their last two league games. The most recent was a 2-3 home defeat to Brighton on Wednesday, a match where early goals from Shea Lacey and Mason Mount were overturned. That result leaves Erik ten Hag's side eight points adrift of leaders Arsenal.

Off the field, the long-running saga of the club's ownership appears to be entering a fresh phase. While the identity of the potential bidder remains unclear, the move suggests ongoing significant interest in acquiring one of football's most iconic institutions. The Glazer family, who have controlled the club since 2005, have been exploring a full or partial sale for over a year.

Any new offer would be subject to the Premier League's owners' and directors' test. The process is rigorous and can take several weeks to complete.

On the pitch, the team's next challenge is a trip to face Fulham on Sunday. Bruno Fernandes leads the team's scoring charts this term with three goals. The club's immediate priority is halting the slide, with the next fixture offering a chance to climb away from the lower half of the table.