Manchester United have moved closer to their planned 100,000-capacity stadium after acquiring the majority of the land required for the project near Old Trafford.
The development marks one of the most significant steps yet in the club’s long-term stadium plans, which were first outlined by minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe in London in March 2025.
Since that presentation, progress had appeared slow in public.
However, discussions around land acquisition have continued behind the scenes and have now resulted in a key breakthrough.
According to sources, United have secured a triangular section of roads between Wharfside Way, Europa Way and John Gilbert Way.
The site sits close to the car parks behind the Stretford End and forms part of a wider 25-acre area identified for the new stadium development.
Final plans and costings for the stadium are still to be agreed, while negotiations remain ongoing with existing leaseholders in parts of the affected area.
The announcement comes as Andy Burnham, one of the key figures behind the Old Trafford Regeneration Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC), has been sworn in as an MP, stepping down as Greater Manchester Mayor.
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“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,” said Collette Roche, Manchester United’s new stadium development chief executive.
“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.”
United have not disclosed the cost of the land purchase or the source of funding used for the transaction.
On 12 June, the club confirmed it had secured $550m (£415.35m) in financing to refinance $425m (£320.95m) in bonds due in 2027, though it remains unclear if any of that funding has been used for the land deal.
The club confirmed the land was acquired from Indurent, a Blackstone portfolio company and major industrial space provider, but did not clarify whether it relates to previously reported Trafford Park holdings valued between £275m and £280m in 2023.
United believe the site’s location will allow improved access via the city’s Metrolink network and wider rail links, a key factor in plans for what would become England’s largest stadium.
Further clarity on how the stadium project fits into the wider MDC regeneration plan is expected on 9 July, when the draft masterplan for the Old Trafford area is set to be unveiled.
