Reds announce new sponsor

Hublot - the Swiss manufacturer of prestige watches – has become the official timekeeper to Manchester United in a multi-million pound, three-year sponsorship deal.

It's the fourth sponsor to commit to United since the summer, following in the footsteps of Saudi Telecom, Seoul Metropolitan Government and Budweiser’s deal renewal. It's a sign, United chief executive David Gill says, of United's commercial standing.

“We are in difficult economic times, but this deal shows that there are still deals to be done,” he told MUTV. “It’s not to say that football is not going to be impacted by that. But if you can combine the strength of a brand like Manchester United and a company like Hublot then you have got a wonderful combination.”

Hublot, which produced the official watches for Euro 2008, announced the deal at a press conference at Old Trafford on Thursday, attended by David Gill, manager Sir Alex Ferguson, Ryan Giggs, Rio Ferdinand and FIFPro World Player of the Year, Cristiano Ronaldo.

“We’re delighted to welcome such a prestigious partner as Hublot to Manchester United,” added Gill. “Their reputation for excellence and innovation makes them a fitting and exciting sponsor. Sir Alex is well known as a stickler for timekeeping on and off the pitch - now we have a partner that shares his passion!”

Jean-Claude Biver, chief executive of Hublot, described it as an “extraordinary partnership”. “Manchester United is the number one club in the world. We’re very proud to be the official timekeeper of the most prestigious football club in the world.”