Ambitious plans by Manchester United to help fund a new £2bn stadium have been thrown into doubt by a forthcoming government crackdown on ticket touts, The Guardian can reveal.
PSL Model Under Threat
The club had been exploring the sale of personal seat licences (PSLs), a model common in American sports, which would grant fans the right to purchase a specific seat at a new ground for a set period. However, the proposed PSL framework being considered by United included a provision allowing licence holders to resell their match or season tickets at a profit.
This key feature is now set to be outlawed by new legislation expected in next year's King's Speech. The government's initial proposal to cap secondary ticket sales at 30% above face value has been strengthened, with the limit now set at the original ticket cost.
Officials from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) state this change will make resale tickets £37 cheaper on average, saving consumers an estimated £112m annually.
United's Extensive Fan Consultation
Manchester United began a massive consultation on introducing PSLs this year, described as the largest market research project the club has ever undertaken. The survey, conducted by CSL International, was sent to hundreds of thousands of season-ticket holders and members.
Under the explored model, buying a PSL would secure the right to a specific seat, though fans would still need to pay separately for the season ticket itself. It was reported that the club was considering charging around £4,000 for a 30-year licence.
Club sources confirmed the model included a potential resale element but emphasised the consultation was at an early stage. While the ban on profitable resales doesn't necessarily kill the PSL plan, it could make them a less attractive investment, potentially forcing United to lower its prices.
Implications and Distinctions
The PSLs were envisioned primarily for premium, exclusive seats, with other areas reserved for ordinary supporters. A significant benefit for licence holders would be a guaranteed seat location each season, addressing frustrations from long-term fans who have been relocated by the club in recent years.
It is important to distinguish PSLs from the debenture models used at Wimbledon and Twickenham. Debentures are interest-free loans repaid after a set period (five years for Wimbledon, 75 for Twickenham) in return for ticket-purchasing rights. As such, they are not expected to be affected by the new legislation.
Manchester United has declined to comment publicly on the matter. However, sources within the club have made it clear that they will comply with all new legislative requirements once they are formally introduced.
