United confirm Chinese sponsors

Manchester United’s prolific commercial team have confirmed two new sponsorship deals.

Chinese soft drinks manufacturer Wahaha and one of China’s most prominent banking groups, China Construction Bank, have signed three-year tie ups with the Old Trafford outfit.

Both deals are ’territory specific’ and aim to take advantage of United’s huge popularity in the country.

“Manchester United has a long association with China, visiting 11 times to play friendly matches,” said United commercial director Richard Arnold.

“The first time was in 1975 and the most recent visit in August last year.

“Sir Alex and his team were overwhelmed with the welcome they received from fans who packed the stadium in Shanghai.”

United posted record commercial income of £117.6million last year and have already announced an eye-boggling £357million seven-year shirt sponsorship deal with US car manufacturer Chevrolet that starts in 2014.