Man United reveal new update on the future of Old Trafford as they step up work on stadium renovation plans after setting up a task force led by Seb Coe

Manchester United have stepped up work on their stadium plans – and revealed more information about what a revamped Old Trafford will look like.

As previously reported, new investor Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS Group are considering two proposals. The favored option is to build a new state-of-the-art stadium on land next to United’s historic home. However, a large-scale regeneration of Old Trafford, which would initially be a less expensive project, is also being considered.

And – if officials decide to go this route – fans could expect a “new world-class South Stand” and renovation work to the three other stands at the Theater of Dreams. The South Stand, known as the Sir Bobby Charlton, is the oldest structure on the ground. United often considered expansion but was hampered by the adjacent railroad line. Advances in technology mean that logistics is no longer the major problem it once was. A new stand would likely have several tiers instead of one and be of a similar height to the other three stands at Old Trafford. Such a move could give a big increase to capacity, which currently stands at around 74,000 places, with a figure of 90,000 places considered realistic.

The renovation would also focus on increasing the capacity and quality level of United’s corporate hospitality offerings. Collette Roche, Chief Operating Officer, said: “The first option is to redevelop the current stadium, which would: focus primarily on the construction of a new world-class South Stand, as well as the refurbishment of the three other stands.

She added: “The alternative would be to build a new stadium on our footprint, which could significantly increase capacity and deliver a world-leading stadium and experience for fans, the team and other stakeholders. “

The option favored by Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS group is to build a new state-of-the-art stadium

United have set up a specialist taskforce, which includes Lord Sebastian Coe, Gary Neville and Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, to work on the project, which could include government funding and which would aim to transform the area around the stadium while providing a new national facility in the north.

Meanwhile, work will be carried out on the first-team section of United’s Carrington training ground this summer. Last year the focus was on the women’s team and academy facilities. However, this time around work will focus on improving the environment for players and staff to support high performance, as INEOS, led by sporting director Sir Dave Brailsford, looks to make its mark .