Manchester United’s proposal to introduce personal seat licences (PSLs) as part of a £2bn Old Trafford redevelopment faces a major setback after the UK government moved to outlaw ticket resales above face value.
United have been exploring an American-style PSL system, where supporters pay for the right to buy a specific seat for years and can later resell that licence—potentially at a profit. But the government’s new legislation, due in next year’s king’s speech, would block any ability to sell seats or match tickets above original cost.
While football ticket touting is already banned under the 1994 Criminal Justice Act, government sources say they would oppose any attempt by United to create a profitable resale market for PSLs.
The club recently surveyed hundreds of thousands of fans about the scheme, which would apply only to premium seats. PSL buyers would still need to purchase a season ticket every year to keep their licence. United had reportedly been considering a price of around £4,000 for a 30-year licence.
If resale profit is banned, the investment value of PSLs would drop significantly, likely forcing United to rethink pricing or even the viability of the scheme.
United say they will comply with any legislation, but the government stance raises major questions over how the club will fund their ambitious stadium rebuild.
