Are Manchester United getting a new stadium? What will it mean for the future of Old Trafford? And how much will this all cost? Sky Sports takes a look at the key questions…
Manchester United have said they are supporting council plans to regenerate an area surrounding Old Trafford, which includes a dedicated ‘Stadium District’.
But chief operating officer, Collette Roche, did not offer any indication of what that development could look like when quoted alongside Trafford Council’s executive member for economy and regeneration, councillor Liz Patel.
Roche said: “We will continue to work closely with the council, and other local stakeholders, on how any future development work at Old Trafford can complement their vision and, most importantly, benefit the local community.”
The Daily Telegraph reported earlier this month Sir Jim Ratcliffe wants to create a new stadium for United, who has spent the last 114 years at Old Trafford, which holds nearly 74,000 spectators.
The plan, according to the report, would see United create a ‘Wembley of the North’ to rival the 90,000-seater national stadium in north London.
Billionaire Ratcliffe, who founded the INEOS group, is acquiring a 25 per cent stake of United for a fee of £1.2bn, which has moved a step closer after the FA approved the purchase.