Gill: United will not sell Old Trafford

Posted Sunday, January 31, 2010 by PA

Manchester United chief executive David Gill is adamant Old Trafford and the club's Carrington training base will never be sold to raise funds.

United have come under intense scrutiny in recent weeks as details of their financial structures have been made public. Amongst the most contentious issues contained in a prospectus for an ultimately successful £504million bond issue was confirmation that Carrington and Old Trafford could be sold and then leased back to the club.

But Gill told radio Five Live: "I can categorically confirm Carrington and Old Trafford will never be sold to raise funds."

He added: "The sale and lease back opportunity for Carrington within the bond document is done for financial and tax planning.

"Manchester United will continue to have complete control over that asset and if it ever happened it would be for a peppercorn rent if it happens.

"But I am 100% convinced the sale and lease-back of Old Trafford will never happen under the Glazer ownership. I say that unequivocally, with no hesitation."

Meanwhile Gabriel Obertan's agent has dismissed reports the winger is set to leave the club.

Reports have suggested Obertan, who has struggled for playing time since his summer arrival from Bordeaux, is set for a loan move with Turkish outfit Fenerbahce said to be interested.

However, his agent insists the 20-year-old is staying put.

"He's staying at Manchester United," Karim Djaziri told L'Equipe.