Manchester United have signed a five-year sponsorship
deal with Middle East telecommunications giant Saudi
Telecom.
The multi-million pound agreement gives Saudi Telecom exclusive
rights to mobile phone content within Saudi Arabia, building on a
close relationship with the Kingdom which was enhanced in January
when Sir Alex Ferguson took his first-team squad there.
"Our match earlier this year in Riyadh demonstrated the passion
our Saudi fans have for Manchester United," said Red Devils chief
executive David Gill.
"We believe this groundbreaking partnership will bring the
action of Manchester United direct to our many fans in Saudi
Arabia."
In gaining access to Saudi Telecom's estimated 15 million
subscribers, United hope to build on their own already large fan
base in the region.
The ability to sign such a contract, which does not have
anything to do with shirt sponsorship, emphasises what a global
appeal United have.
It is thought the Red Devils will be heading to Asia again next
summer but after recent trips to Saudi Arabia and Nigeria, India
appears to be the next territory where United are keen to make
inroads.