Manchester United sign ‘historic’ Chinese deal

Manchester United have announced a new deal with digital media platform Sina Sports to bring their dedicated MUTV channel to Chinese fans.

As part of the multi-year agreement, Shanghai-headquartered Sina Sports will make MUTV content available across its website, mobile site and app.

The deal will give the club’s 108m followers in China access to match highlights, interviews, documentaries, news and coverage of Louis van Gaal’s weekly press conference.

Richard Arnold, United’s group managing director, called the partnership “important and exciting” for both the club and their Chinese fans.

He said: “[Manchester United] works tirelessly on new and innovate ways in which we can engage with our fans and this is a classic example of how our commercial partnerships allow us to do this.

“MUTV broadcasting in China is not only a first for Manchester United, but also a first for any 24/7 dedicated Premier League club channel. We couldn’t have found a better partner to work with on this than Sina Sports.”

Sina Sports’ senior vice president and general manager, Arthur Wei, said he believes the partnership will “make great strides” in changing the way Chinese fans watch and understand football.

He commented: “This partnership is a great example of the vision we have to provide Chinese fans with more and more diversified, deeper sports content.

“Manchester United has deservedly won over 100m fans in China and we are excited to see how the club will grow its following through this historic launch.”

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