Manchester United have bought most of the land they need to build their new 100,000 stadium as they move closer to getting a deluxe ground to replace Old Trafford.
United have purchased a 25-acre triangle around 350m from Old Trafford for what they consider market value.
They are confident they will be able to acquire the rest of the land needed to go forward with the £2bn project, which was introduced by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
United are aiming to have the biggest stadium in the United Kingdom and insist the plot they have chosen will also help with the wider regeneration of the Trafford area.
United CEO Collette Roche said: “Today’s news highlights the progress we’re making towards a world-class new home for Manchester United and represents a significant milestone as we move into the next phase of development.
“Being able to build so close to Old Trafford allows us to preserve the heritage, traditions and rituals that are so important to our fans. We are committed to building a world-class stadium with our supporters, not just for them, with atmosphere, affordability and accessibility at the heart of our thinking.
“This is a generational opportunity that is fully aligned with both local and national growth ambitions. Securing the right land for our new home has been absolutely critical, and the land we’ve acquired gives us the stage to deliver a truly world-class stadium that honours our past and is ready for our future.”
United have bought land between Wharfside Way, Europa Way and John Gilbert Way from Indurent, a provider of industrial space, and a Blackstone portfolio firm, rather than buying from Freightliner, who also own land near Old Trafford.
They have also worked with Trafford Council and the Old Trafford Regeneration Mayoral Development Corporation as part of a 370-acre regeneration project.
It is forecast to deliver around 15,000 new homes, including affordable housing, create over 90,000 jobs nationally, with 48,000 in the Manchester area, and to add more than £7 billion a year to the British economy.
Details on a formal consultation period for the new ground will begin on 9 July, with United promising to consult with supporters.