Manchester United’s proposal to introduce personal seat licences (PSLs) to help fund the £2bn redevelopment of Old Trafford is under pressure due to the government’s new measures against ticket touting.
The club was considering a PSL system that would allow holders to resell match or season tickets at a profit. However, upcoming legislation will ban the resale of sports and music tickets above their original price, undermining the viability of such a model.
Although football already falls under existing laws restricting secondary ticket sales, government sources say they would oppose any attempt by United to create a new resale market through PSLs. The club has been surveying hundreds of thousands of fans through CSL International to gauge interest in the idea.
A PSL would give supporters the right to buy a specific seat at the new stadium for a set period, separate from the cost of the season ticket. PSLs are common in American sports, where they can often be resold for significant profit. United’s early proposals reportedly included the option to resell licences themselves.
Restrictions on resale could make PSLs less attractive and force United to adjust prices. The licences are expected to be offered only for premium seating, ensuring holders keep the same seat each season. If a holder fails to renew their season ticket, the licence would be revoked.
Reports suggest United had considered charging around £4,000 for a 30-year licence, though this may change if resale profits are banned.
United declined to comment but indicated they will comply with all legal requirements.
