Lawyers acting on behalf of John Magnier and JP McManus have asked to view transcripts of Sir Alex Ferguson’s press conference on Friday, at which he discussed the dispute with United’s major shareholders.
The Irish duo are investigating the possibility of a claim for defamation against Ferguson.
The pair have recently questioned United’s transfer dealings, some of which are said to have involved the Elite Sports Agency run by Ferguson’s son Jason. Ferguson revealed that his son had called in police because people had been stealing his mail and going through his rubbish.
Ferguson, who is suing Magnier over the rights to stud fees for the racehorse Rock Of Gibraltar, now faces the possibility of his detractors lodging a high court claim for defamation.
Meanwhile, Jason Ferguson has come to the defence of his father.
“I’m very proud of what my father has achieved and I’m proud of the way he has done it,’ he said.
“He has sweated blood to put United where it is, but I am disappointed to say blood is now being spilt over what is a private matter.
“What has been said about me I know is part of a wider campaign to discredit my dad but I will not let it happen.
“It has been suggested I am going to walk away, but I can categorically state I will not and want to end any rumours that might destabilise this company.
“We have always conducted ourselves in a good and correct manner.”
“There is going to be an internal inquiry at the club and I welcome that and will co-operate fully with it.”
