Although Manchester United insists that the design of the futuristic new stadium is still in the "concept phase" and that the Old Trafford reconstruction contract will be awarded through a tender process, insider sources reveal that Sir Jim Ratcliffe has a particular fondness for the "tent-style" design. It would be a major surprise if his old friend, Sir Norman Foster, fails to take on the £2 billion project.
At the most recent fan forum in June, when responding to fans’ questions, Manchester United emphasized that the design proposal unveiled by Foster + Partners in London in March is not the final version.
The club stated: “We have released indicative conceptual designs to help shape thinking and demonstrate the transformative potential of the new stadium. These concepts are the starting point for the next phase of work, which will include more detailed feasibility studies, fan consultations, and refinement of the designers' proposals.”
“The formal process for appointing the stadium architect has begun. Like all of the club’s appointment processes, the final candidate will be determined in accordance with governance policies after the completion of appropriate due diligence.”
The eye-catching "tent" structure featured in artists' impressions of "New Trafford" is expected to be retained. The designs also show a fan activity area beneath the "tent," which includes a large plaza for fans to gather.
While there is currently no indication of impropriety in the tender process, it is understood that Foster + Partners previously completed the £50 million upgrade of the Carrington Training Ground on time and within budget—giving it an advantageous position in the race for the Old Trafford reconstruction project.
Furthermore, Sir Ratcliffe greatly admires the bold design proposal from Foster’s team, so the differences between the final version and the current conceptual design are likely to be insignificant.
Manchester United’s more pressing issue at present is securing government funding support for the overall redevelopment of the area surrounding Old Trafford, while also reaching an agreement with Forester Lane Company to acquire the land behind the stadium for the new stadium construction.
Although the freight company is willing to relocate to Parkside, its valuation of the land plot is £400 million—10 times the valuation put forward by Manchester United.
Currently, the Mayoral Development Corporation, which is responsible for overseeing the overall plan, has been established. This means Manchester United can facilitate the land transaction through a compulsory purchase order, but this process may take a significant amount of time, and the final price will still need to reflect the land's market value.
Manchester United requires additional land to expand the footprint of Old Trafford, and the construction of the stadium’s giant roof alone will cost £300 million. This raises questions about whether the £2 billion budget estimate and the 2030 completion date are realistic.
