Manchester United ’s first-team sponsor Chevrolet insisted on a relegation clause as part of their seven-year deal.
Old Trafford bigwigs are on the hunt for new sponsors because General Motors - the American car manufacturer that owns Chevrolet - are unlikely to renew their £59m-per-year contract that expires at the end of the 2020/2021 campaign.
It is reported that the 2012 agreement between the two parties includes financial penalties dependent upon which division United are competing in.
It’s claimed deductions would only be triggered if the Red Devils spent two consecutive seasons outside the Premier League.
Therefore, even if the unthinkable happens this campaign, Chevrolet would have to pay up in full next term.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side were in danger of dropping into the relegation zone following the 1-0 loss at Newcastle earlier this month.
United have since bounced back from their St James’ Park humiliation, however, earning a draw against Liverpool and beating Norwich.
They currently sit seventh in the Premier League table, with 13 points from their 10 fixtures.
A United spokesman said: “Chevrolet is a fantastic partner and we will continue to work with them to activate and maximise the sponsorship.”
Chevrolet’s deal is the highest in the Premier League but some General Motors bosses are reportedly less than impressed with the return on their investment.
But the Daily Mail claim United bosses are confident their next shirt sponsorship deal will be more lucrative than their current one.
A Chevrolet spokesman said: “We are immensely proud of our partnership with Manchester United.
“Since we became partners in 2012, the sponsorship has had a significant and positive impact on the Chevrolet business driving awareness for us in our key markets and has inspired and empowered millions of people through our activation programmes where the club is one of the most recognised brands.
“We look forward to continuing to work together closely to activate and maximise the sponsorship.”
