Manchester United set to sell Old Trafford naming rights to raise funds for rebuild - Reports
Manchester United are open to selling the naming rights to Old Trafford or a new stadium they might build. According to The Athletic, Red Devils' new part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is keen on driving up revenues and has identified the stadium as a possible source.
Infrastructure development has been earmarked as a key area of improvement for the side. They had a forgettable moment late in the campaign after a loss to Arsenal when water leaked from the roof of the stadium, prompting concerns over its quality. The side have reportedly initiated contact with Bank of America over possible funding options, indicating their desire to either refurbish or construct a new arena.
The report claims that should they decide to stick with Old Trafford, Manchester United would look to keep the name but associate it with a partner, similar to what Barcelona did with Spotify in renaming their home as Spotify Camp Nou. However, should they build a new one, they could sell the entire name, akin to Arsenal's Emirates Stadium or Manchester City's Etihad Stadium.
Pundit makes claim about player Manchester United are looking to sell
Pundit Simon Jordan believes Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood could command a fee of £40 million. This comes after reports that the Red Devils are keen on selling the 22-year-old, with teams in Italy expressing interest.
Speaking on talkSPORT, Jordan said:
“As the player that we saw before all of his conduct superseded his football ability, he’s worth £40 million,” Jordan, the former Crystal Palace chairman, tells talkSPORT.
“He is a brilliant player who had such great opportunities. Unfortunately, because of his behaviour, he’s put himself in a situation where he’s a little bit of a problem. But he will go on and play in other leagues. And United will get a decent fee for him because he is worth it.”
The attacker was away from football for over a year after he was accused of alleged assault by his partner in January 2022. After the case against him was dropped in February 2023, Erik ten Hag's side explored the possibility of bringing him back but eventually decided against it.
Greenwood spent the 2023-24 campaign on loan at La Liga side Getafe where he was impressive, bagging 10 goals and six assists in 36 appearances. Manchester United have already rejected approaches of £20 million from Lazio, according to journalist Gianluca di Marzio, while Juventus and Atletico Madrid have also expressed interest.