'World-class football destination' - Man Utd to hire architecture firm tasked with creating 'masterplan' for new stadium as Old Trafford's future still hangs in the balance

The club aim to turn the district into a "world-class football destination" amid plans of either renovating Old Trafford or possibly building a new stadium. Earlier this year, United appointed Foster + Partners to lead a £50 million ($66m) project to modernise their Carrington Training Complex. Now, the same firm will be tasked with creating a "vibrant destination for visitors from Manchester, the UK and all around the world".

United said in a statement that Old Trafford will not be part of the project as the club hierarchy continue to consider their options, but stressed that a "world-class stadium" will be at the heart of the masterplan.

"The focus will be to design a world-class football destination and home for Manchester United fans, coupled with a wider masterplan comprising mixed-use developments which will benefit the local community, attract new residents, increase job provision, and make it a vibrant destination for visitors from Manchester, the UK and all around the world," the club's announcement said.

"The exercise will include substantial engagement with fans, community members, local authorities and the Old Trafford Regeneration Task Force, whose feedback and insights will be incorporated into the masterplan design."

It has been reported that partial-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe wants to have a decision made regarding Old Trafford by the end of the year. It emerged this week that United are open to demolishing their iconic ground and build a 100,000 capacity 'Wembley of the North' stadium, which would cost around £2 billion ($2.6bn).