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The Manchester United Supporters Trust have informed Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the owners to use their own money for the redevelopment of Old Trafford, amidst fears that season ticket prices could be hiked.
United are currently considering their options regarding what to do with Old Trafford.
It’s understood that the two main options on the table are either the refurbishment of the current grounds or the construction of a brand-new stadium. At the moment, the latter appears to be likelier but a final decision is expected to be communicated to fans next summer.
A new state-of-the-art arena could cost United up to £2billion and there has been confusion over how the club will raise funds for such an ambitious project, with public funding for the stadium having already been ruled out.
According to The Daily Mail, there are fears that the Red Devils could increase season-ticket prices to help cover the cost of the new Old Trafford.
Over the past two campaigns, United have increased season ticket prices after maintaining a freeze on them for 11 years.
Now, the Manchester United Supporters Trust have warned against such a move, insisting that other alternatives should be pursued.
A spokesperson of the fan group told The Mail, “Everyone agrees Old Trafford needs updating but the big question is how that is funded.”
“Other clubs have funded stadium work through debt, but due to the existing huge debt burden the Glazers have placed on United, that option is not open to us.”
“This is an investment project so should be funded by capital, not ticket prices. We believe the owners should either invest themselves or issue new shares to allow others – including fans – to invest to make this happen.”
“Stadium improvements should not be funded by big ticket increases on ordinary match-going reds.”
United return to action on Sunday when they make their way to Portman Road to face newly-promoted Ipswich Town.