Manchester United have enlisted the support of law firm Slaughter and May on early-stage construction and procurement aspects of their planned 100,000-seater stadium. The announcement comes after United acquired a 25-acre plot of land earlier this week, allowing plans for the ambitious new stadium to move forward.
Slaughter and May's Track Record
Slaughter and May previously advised Everton on the construction, financing, real estate, and planning of the Hill Dickinson Stadium in Liverpool. The Toffees' new stadium has been widely regarded as a success, despite supporter concerns over inadequate transport links. The firm also advised Everton on the redevelopment of Goodison Park, which now hosts women's matches after its capacity was reduced.
United are still in the early stages of planning, and no broader appointment of any firm has been made for the stadium project. Slaughter and May is currently also advising Crystal Palace on their Selhurst Park redevelopment, which includes a new 13,500-seat main stand.
Relationship with Ineos and Sir Jim Ratcliffe
Slaughter and May already has a close relationship with Ineos, having advised Sir Jim Ratcliffe's company on the acquisition of a minority stake in United two years ago. The firm also advised Ineos on the acquisitions of OGC Nice and FC Lausanne-Sport, including navigating rules on multi-club ownership. Additionally, Slaughter and May has worked with Arsenal in the past, advising on Stan Kroenke's takeover, player transfers, and loan agreements.
According to Slaughter and May's website: "We support our clients by providing the best quality advice on complex, high value and strategic sports law matters. We represent some of the most famous sports clubs, leading governing bodies, corporate organisations as well as individual clients."
Financial Outlook and Naming Rights
United initially estimated that a new stadium alone would cost £2 billion, but an updated estimate in 2026 could double that figure. The club is already saddled with a record debt of £1.3 billion. The project will be financed privately, with "positive conversations" ongoing with potential investors and stakeholders. United plans to sell the naming rights of the new stadium to raise capital.
Earlier this year, The Sponsor compiled a European stadium naming fair market value report, which indicated that United could generate around £15 million per season from naming rights, equating to £150 million over 10 years.
