Manchester United are hopeful of securing a deal to acquire land around Old Trafford, paving the way for their proposed new 100,000-seater stadium. The club’s plans for the state-of-the-art venue, initially estimated to cost around £2billion, have been hindered by an ongoing issue with Freightliner, who own a crucial piece of land behind the Stretford End.
According to the Daily Mail, United have tabled an offer of around £50million to purchase the land, while Freightliner are holding out for a more ambitious sum of £400m. The report states the Red Devils deem this figure ‘unrealistic’ but there is hope a compulsory purchase order could eventually be issued, leading to government intervention to set a fair price.
However, it is claimed that ‘constructive’ talks have taken place between the club and Freightliner, with optimism of reaching an agreement ‘within the coming months’.
If a deal is finalised, it would enable United to proceed with plans for a new stadium complex.
Despite this being another positive step, United still need to secure funding for their massive project, expected to cost over £2bn.
Nevertheless, they hope the new venue can be completed in time for the 2030/31 season.
In July, it was reported that United were contemplating the introduction of ‘personal seat licences’, a scheme that could see fans shelling out up to £4,000 for the privilege of purchasing a season ticket at the new stadium.
Supporters are being solicited for their opinions on a range of topics including facilities and pricing. Once the new stadium is built and inaugurated, United’s current home is slated to be razed.
It’s likely the Red Devils will continue to play at Old Trafford until they transition to their new ground, rather than moving into a new temporary home while it is being built.
Foster and Partners architects have revealed that the new stadium will boast an umbrella design and a public plaza that is ‘twice the size of Trafalgar Square’.
The design will incorporate three masts dubbed ‘the trident’, which the architects claim will stand 200 metres tall and be visible from the Peak District.