MANCHESTER UNITED have revealed their new stadium will be financed privately after holding discussions with potential investors and stakeholders.
The Red Devils have been planning to move into a 100,000-capacity Old Trafford in 2030.
And United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe previously called for taxpayers to partly fund the mammoth £2BILLION stadium project.
But it has now been confirmed that the billionaire, 73, has not got his way as the Premier League giants prepare to walk away from their historic home.
A United spokesperson, speaking at the latest fans’ forum, said: “Our proposed new stadium will be financed privately, and we continue to have positive conversations with potential investors and all stakeholders.”
The Red Devils have hit a major stumbling block after talks with Freightliner stalled.
The rail freight business wants at least £400million to move out from behind the Stretford End.
And Freightliner has yet to agree to the sale of its land, where much of the stadium and the wider Trafford Park regeneration project is set to be built.
Design features have also not been finalised, with the controversial circus tent roof potentially being scrapped.
There are fears that United could slump to record levels of debt to finance their new stadium.
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Financial figures for the second quarter, released last month, showed the club were in the red by £1.3bn.
But United reckon the appointment of Collette Roche as chief executive officer in charge of the new stadium development was a landmark moment.
A spokesperson added: “She has been closely involved in the progress we’ve made so far on the pathway toward a new stadium, and her appointment formalises that work.
“The new role gives Collette and the club a much sharper focus on what we need to deliver – the world’s best football stadium.
“It’s a clear signal of commitment, and an important step forward as we move from vision to delivery.”
United’s coffers will be given a much-needed boost if they seal Champions League qualification.
The Red Devils are in a strong position to book their place in Europe’s leading competition despite having to settle for a point at Bournemouth last Friday.
Michael Carrick’s side are not back in action until April 13, when they will host rivals Leeds at Old Trafford.
