United still in league of their own as profits continue to soar

MANCHESTER UNITED look set for another record-breaking year off the pitch after posting a healthy 16.5% increase in first quarter turnover to £73.8 million (€86.3m).

United reported growth in all areas, with the commercial side benefiting from the amazing £40m (€46.7m) deal with DHL to sponsor their training kit, helping it rise 22.3% to £29.6m (€34.6m).

Media revenues were up from £19.4m (€22.7m) to £22.6m (€26.4m), largely thanks to United’s status as Premier League champions and a lucrative five-match tour of the United States.

In addition, match day income has also grown 9.6% to £21.6m (€25.2m), thanks to the first complete sell-out of seasonal hospitality boxes since the plush Old Trafford quadrants were completed in 2006.

It leaves United’s gross debt at £433.2m (€506.5m).

After posting turnover of £331.4m (€387.5m) and profits of £110.9m (€127.6m) last year, matching a campaign when they won the title and reached the Champions League final will not be easy given Manchester City’s rise to prominence.

It places more emphasis on the commercial side, which has grown enormously thanks to a ‘territorial’ approach to marketing, which rival clubs may attempt to copy.

United are also patting themselves on the back for securing five players on new contracts, including England international Chris Smalling and striking sensation Javier Hernandez, in addition to the summer arrivals of Ashley Young, Phil Jones and David de Gea.

However, there was no comment on speculation that Portugal winger Nani may be the next to benefit from an extension to his present deal, which is due to expire in 2014.

The position of £30.75m (€35.9m) record signing Dimitar Berbatov also remains unresolved, with United still to confirm their intention to extend the Bulgarian’s stay by a further season, which under the terms of his present contract, which expires at the end of the season, they have the right to do.