Sources: Ratcliffe fast-tracks £200m+ Man United plan after training-ground visit
Sir Jim Ratcliffe has fast-tracked plans to build a new state-of-the-art training ground for Man United, sources have told Football Insider.
The British billionaire struck a deal to buy 25 percent of the Red Devils on Christmas Eve, with the takeover now waiting for Premier League approval.
Ratcliffe was present for United’s 2-2 draw with Tottenham at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon, with the 71-year-old visiting United’s Carrington training ground prior to kick-off.
It is understood that Ratcliffe was left unimpressed by the club’s training facilities and sources have told Football Insider that the construction of a new training ground has become a ‘top priority’.
United have been based in Carrington since 1999 and the training complex was recently criticised by Cristiano Ronaldo following his exit from the club.
Football Insider revealed in December that Ratcliffe had a £250million ‘masterplan’ to improve training facilities and infrastructure at United once the takeover was complete.
While Ratcliffe still intends to renovate Old Trafford during his ownership, it is more likely that his initial £245million investment fund will go towards a new training complex.
According to reports, United recently held talks with local golf clubs in their search for a suitable area of land.
The Red Devils ideally want 100 acres of land to construct a new training complex able to compete with the likes of Tottenham and Manchester City.
United are expected to keep control of Carrington, allowing their academy and women’s side to use the training facilities.
In other news, Man United agreed deal to sign Man City star but they missed the deadline by one hour