Manchester United: Agree new Chinese sponsorship deals

Chinese soft drinks manufacturer Wahaha and one of the country's most prominent banking groups, China Construction Bank, have signed three-year tie-ups with the club.

Both deals are 'territory specific' and are designed to take advantage of United's huge popularity in China.

"Manchester United has a long association with China, visiting 11 times to play friendly matches," said United commercial director Richard Arnold. "The first time was in 1975 and the most recent visit in August last year.

"Sir Alex and his team were overwhelmed with the welcome they received from fans who packed the stadium in Shanghai."

The two new deals add to the seven-year shirt sponsorship deal that United have signed with US car manufacturer Chevrolet that starts in 2014 and is worth £357m.

Last year, the club posted record commercial income of £117.6m.