Potential Manchester United investor 'turns to Chelsea and eyes up a potential deal with Todd Boehly open to injection of new funds from US firm'

A US firm that offered investment at Manchester United earlier this year is now weighing up a potential deal with Chelsea instead, according to reports.

The company, Ares Management, are thought to be in talks over a potential injection of funds at Stamford Bridge, with Todd Boehly's consortium open to the approach.

Just a matter of months ago, Ares had been among a number of US-based organisations that pitched funding at United with the Glazer family exploring a sale.

But their takeover saga has continued to rumble on and a host of interested parties have since directed their attention elsewhere, including to United's closest rivals.

Indeed, The Telegraph have claimed that Ares, who now hold a significant presence in sport and a $3.7billion (£3.2bn) warchest to splash out in the industry, have held talks over brokering a deal with Chelsea and owner Boehly.

Should the club take on new funding, the funds would be directed toward a new stadium project and a multi-club expansion, the same outlet add.

Ares had initially targeted raising $1.5billion (£1.1bn) last year but now hold greater spending power, allowing them to table an attractive proposal to Chelsea.

Both Ares and Chelsea have declined to comment.

However, a source has indicated to The Telegraph that the club are regularly approached by investors, with Boehly's preference an equity injection.

Since taking charge of the west London side from Roman Abramovich, Boehly and Clearlake Capital have pumped over £600million on new signings.

Negotiations, meanwhile, are continuing to take place between United and multiple parties with their potential takeover yet to run its course, Mail Sport understands.

Concerns had been raised that the lengthy process, which started last November, might be paused to allow the Glazers to reassess their options.

However, as reported by Mail Sport, discussions are continuing with a number of groups with a view to a full sale or partial investment.

The frontrunners are Qatar's Sheikh Jassim and British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Both have lodged bids which United value at around the £5bn mark.

While Sheikh Jassim's offer is for a total buyout, Ratcliffe's proposal is for a gradual takeover that would allow the Glazers to retain their interest for a set period.

Both clubs begin their Premier League campaigns next weekend.