Manchester United are poised for a significant financial windfall in the coming years, thanks to a series of astute clauses embedded in the contracts of former players who have left Old Trafford.
Immediate Windfall and Future Potential
The club has already secured a substantial £25.6 million from various transfer-related agreements this season. This figure includes £5 million from Chelsea to cancel an obligation to buy Jadon Sancho and another £5 million from Marseille, triggered after the French club qualified for the Champions League with Mason Greenwood in their squad.
However, the real financial promise lies in the future, with United having negotiated substantial sell-on percentages for several departed talents.
Key Players with Lucrative Sell-On Clauses
The most notable clause belongs to Mason Greenwood. When the forward joined Marseille permanently, United secured a massive 40% sell-on clause. This means the Red Devils would receive just under half of any future transfer fee if Marseille decides to sell the player.
Greenwood, once considered one of Europe's most promising talents at Old Trafford, left the club after being charged with rape, assault, and controlling and coercive behaviour in 2022. The charges were dropped in 2023, with Greenwood denying all allegations. After a loan spell at Getafe, he signed for Marseille where he has been performing well.
Other former players with valuable clauses include:
- Scott McTominay: The midfielder, now excelling at Napoli after his August 2024 departure, has a 10% sell-on clause in his contract.
- Hannibal Mejbri: The highly-rated youngster, who signed for Burnley in 202450% sell-on clause attached to his deal.
- Zidane Iqbal: Currently with Utrecht, the former United academy player's contract contains a 40% sell-on clause.
Strategic Financial Planning for United
This strategy of inserting significant sell-on clauses provides Manchester United with a valuable secondary revenue stream. It allows the club to benefit from the future development and market value of players they have nurtured, even after they have moved on.
The club's approach suggests a shrewd, long-term financial strategy. If current stars like Kobbie Mainoo or Joshua Zirkzee were to be sold, especially in this January window, inserting similar large sell-on clauses would be a wise move to protect and enhance future income.
With several players across Europe carrying these clauses, Manchester United are well-positioned to rake in considerable cash in upcoming transfer windows, particularly if any of these assets are sold for major fees.
