FIVE NEW FORLANS

Last updated : 02 December 2003 By editor

United announced yesterday the launch of a new £36million, four-year sponsorship deal with mobile phone giants Vodafone.

Gill insists such funding means United are still capable of competing with the likes of Chelsea in the transfer market.

He said:

"This deal will ensure we continue to invest in new players as necessary. But we are looking long term to ensure we get the best players in the world. We've never shied away from investing properly in players. But there are only a finite number of players you can buy. We definitely still have the financial clout to compete. We have the history and tradition. Players want to come and play here in a magnificent stadium”.

"We had £173million worth of revenue last year and had £29million in the bank at the end of the year. We're looking to improve on that with this deal with Vodafone."