Manchester United's stadium development chief, Collette Roche, has confirmed that progress is being made on the club's £2bn plans for a new 100,000-seater stadium. Speaking about the project, Roche revealed that land acquisition deals are expected to be announced in the coming months, and talks with potential investors are progressing well.
The club announced plans last year to build a new stadium on land adjacent to the current Old Trafford. While no concrete updates have been made public since then, Roche insisted that significant work has been carried out behind the scenes. One of the key challenges has been securing a large patch of land owned by Freightliner, but Roche suggested a deal could be confirmed soon.
Roche also highlighted progress in securing investment for the project. Sir Jim Ratcliffe previously stated that the stadium would be funded with private finance, and Roche confirmed that the club has spoken with 'people and organisations' keen to invest. Additionally, discussions with public bodies regarding taxpayer investment in infrastructure around the stadium are ongoing.
The club is working closely with local authorities, including the newly established Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC), chaired by Lord Seb Coe. Roche emphasised the importance of these relationships, noting that the MDC will help with planning, infrastructure, and removing obstacles. The wider regeneration project aims to bring benefits to the city region, with support from Mayor Andy Burnham and Trafford leader Tom Ross.
