Man United head for rich league top

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Business advisory firm Deloitte published its new Football Money League which saw Manchester United move from fourth place to second.

Real remain at the top of the league for the third successive year on the latest figures available, from the 2006-07 season, which showed their revenue increased by 20% to £236 million.

However, United enjoyed a 30% increase to £212 million, ahead of Barcelona, Chelsea and Arsenal in third, fourth and fifth respectively.

The Old Trafford club had dominated the money league since its inception in 1996-97 before Real took over, and Paul Rawnsley, director of Deloitte's sports business group, believes it is only a matter of time before they resume their position at the top with the impact of the new television deal due to be felt during the current campaign.

He said: "Real Madrid are still at the top after an impressive 20% growth in revenue, but Manchester United closed the gap and have the potential to catch Real up and take that top spot possibly next season or the season thereafter.

"To some extent, that will depend on how they perform relative to Real Madrid in the Champions League."

The figures take into account revenue generated from ticket sales, broadcasting rights, merchandising and the like, and illustrate the financial strength of the Barclays Premier League's top clubs.

Six English clubs - United, Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool (8th), Tottenham (11th) and Newcastle (14th) - make the top 20, with Scotland's Celtic in 17th place.

Manchester City and West Ham, as well as Rangers, have dropped out the top 20, but remained within striking distance along with Aston Villa and Everton.