Manchester United have assured fans that they will be consulted before any decision is made on selling the naming rights to Old Trafford.
However, the club has acknowledged that renaming the stadium is a possibility being considered.
United are currently exploring options to either redevelop Old Trafford or construct a new stadium at the same location, with estimated costs reaching up to £2 billion ($2.58bn). According to United’s COO Collette Roache, “all possible funding options” will be evaluated.
This could include the sale of naming rights for a new stadium, similar to Barcelona’s agreement to rename their stadium Spotify Camp Nou. Roache emphasized at a recent fans’ forum that supporters will have a say before any final decision is made.
“You may have seen the media speculation around naming rights and it was just that; speculation,” said Roache. “We must look at all possible funding options, but it’s still early stages with no decisions made.
What we can promise is that fans, through this forum and other channels, will be kept informed and consulted every step of the way.”
Since Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s arrival as co-owner, work has already started on a £50m revamp of United’s Carrington training ground.
Improvements are also being made to Old Trafford, including upgrading the players’ tunnel.
“The players’ tunnel has not seen any major changes since it was opened in 1993 following the redevelopment of the Stretford End,” said Roache. “But when the players walk out against Fulham next month, they will find a much smarter, more modern tunnel interior.”
Manchester United have sought to address fan concerns about the possibility of competitive matches being played overseas.
Despite rumors suggesting that Premier League games might be relocated to international venues, COO Collette Roache has reassured supporters that the club is “not pursuing” such plans.