The Glazer family have set aside an additional transfer budget of £25 million for Manchester United to buy a brand-boosting superstar. The extra kitty was revealed in their 60-page business plan outlining how they will move the club forwards.
United boss Sir Alex Ferguson also has an annual coffer of £25 million for standard player purchases but - if such a player becomes available and he would be beneficial to the team - the Glazers will not get in the way of the United boss.
While accepting they cannot compete with the likes of Chelsea in terms of spending power, United are keen to emulate Real Madrid's model of maximising commercial revenue even if the team are not performing on the pitch.
The Red Devils already have young household names such as Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo tied down to long-term deals at Old Trafford, so would not need to break the bank on a regular basis to bring extra big names to the club.
As expected, ticket prices are to be hiked up over the next six years, with an almost 50% rise predicted by 2012. The Glazers believe seats which range from £23 to £39 per match to be "undervalued" which, when compared to London clubs weighing in at almost double that, appears a fair assessment.
There is no mention of the rumours that Old Trafford will be sold and leased-back or that separate TV deals will be pursued. Instead the Glazers outline the importance of centrally distributed TV contracts and brand-related growth through pre-season tours and benefit matches.
The report could not resist one dig at Premiership title rivals Chelsea, saying their "lack of brand appeal and limited fanbase beyond the UK make it a less compelling commercial partner" than the likes of main economic rivals Real Madrid or even Arsenal and Liverpool.
[ Bericht 10% gewijzigd door Cantona_No.7 op 22-12-2006 18:03:49 ]