Manchester, Jul 31: Manchester United have signed a new seven-year sponsorship deal with US car giants General Motors. The world's most popular football club's shirt sponsor will be Chevrolet during the start of the 2014-15 season.

Chevrolet, the current Official Car Partner of the Club, takes over from current sponsor Aon and will become only the fifth shirt sponsor in the club's 134 history.

Richard Arnold, Manchester United's commercial director, said, "This is a fantastic, long-term deal for the club".

The seven-year deal with Chevrolet, signed for an undisclosed fee, replaced German car makers Audi after United signed a five-year deal in May.

"They are a key partner on our current tour and I know they have enjoyed experiencing the buzz generated by our fanatical support and the sell-out crowds in South Africa, China and Europe," Arnold said.

"It is a great thrill for those of us who work with partners all year round when an existing partner steps up to being one of our principal partners. This commitment to United and its fans will bring real benefits to everyone who cares about the Club," he added.

The US car giants have also planned to build a car park at United's Old Trafford stadium. The company have also signed a similar deal with Premier League rivals Liverpool in a bid to increase profits outside United States using cost-effective methods like sponsorship deals.

Alan Batey, Vice President of US sales and service at General Motors, said, "We are extremely proud to connect our brand, Chevrolet, with Manchester United and its passionate supporters all around the world. Manchester United's statistics are impressive, but this relationship goes far beyond the numbers - this relationship is about connecting our brand with the deep-seated emotion that surrounds the team everywhere."

Earlier in July, Manchester United applied to list on the US stock market in a share sale aimed at raising a minimum £64m ($100m).

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