THERE'S MONEY FOR NEW PLAYERS

Last updated : 06 March 2007 By Ed
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Manchester United have the cash to be in the fight to sign the best players in Europe this summer.

The Old Trafford outfit have just announced a new multi-million pound sponsorship deal with Spanish commercial giants Grupo 2002 to promote residential properties throughout the globe under the Royal Resorts Sports and Leisure banner.

The five-year contract emphasises the continuing global appeal of United, who have similar platinum sponsorship deals with Air Asia, Budweiser, Audi and Kumho Tyres and comes on the back of some hugely impressive performances in both domestic and European combat by Sir Alex Ferguson's men this season.

While some critics argue the cash will only be used to help pay off the debts Malcolm Glazer incurred to complete his controversial £780million takeover in 2005, United chief executive David Gill insists there is no question of the Red Devils not being able to compete in the transfer market at the end of the current campaign.

"We will be pitching for players," he said.

"In order to do these (sponsorship) deals we fully understand the need for us to have good teams playing attractive and winning football the Manchester United way. That has always been the case.

"We bought Michael Carrick and Tomasz Kuszczak last summer and we will continue to invest in the team as necessary. The funds are there."