The Board of Manchester United PLC has announced half yearly turnover of ú64 million for the period ending 31 January 2000.

Against the previous six-month period, Manchester United’s turnover has increased from ú56.5 million to ú64 million, and pre-tax profits have increased to ú12 million from ú11.1 million.

Television revenue has been of great significance in Manchester United’s growth, with the club’s TV revenue rising from ú9 million to ú15.6million. While merchandising revenue rose 15% to ú14.3 million further buoyed by franchise openings in diverse regions such as the Far East.

The club’s decision to opt out of the 1999-2000 FA Cup explains why gate receipts are slightly down, however the figure is still at an impressive ú21.4million. While even before the recent sponsorship deal with Vodafone is accounted for sponsorship income was still ú8.8m.

Despite increasing costs, including a ú3million rise in the players’ wages, Manchester United’s increased profits has further consolidated their position as Britain’s richest club by some considerable margin.

With the club’s continued on field success and the new ú30 million sponsorship with telecoms company Vodafone to be taken into account Manchester United’s yearly turnover could surpass ú130 million.