Liverpool's imminent record-breaking deal with Nike will see the American giants use the likes of Drake, Serena Williams and LeBron James to promote the Premier League club's attire.
The Reds have agreed in principle the most lucrative agreement in their history, after extensive negotiations with the high profile American sports brand, as revealed by Mirror Sport .
The arrangement, which is due to commence next season, will bring an end to their current deal with New Balance which sees them earn a whopping £45million a year.
And while The Athletic claim that Liverpool have agreed to accept a smaller guaranteed payment from Nike than the current one they receive from New Balance, they will benefit hugely from the array of talent boasted by Nike.
The publication claims that Nike have only offered clubs a 15 per cent revenue split in the past, but are willing to offer the Anfield club a 20 per cent return due to their global appeal.
And, it is understood, brand ambassadors such as rap star Drake, basketball’s LeBron James and tennis icon Serena Williams will drive sales by promoting Liverpool kits.
Sports marketing expert Tim Crow told The Athletic: “New Balance hasn't done a bad job — the last two kits have been best-sellers — but Nike’s sales grew by 27 per cent in China last year.
"They have spent a lot of time and money building their footprint in China and now have an impressive e-commerce business, too. New Balance can’t compete with that.
"It’s all about speed and scale. Liverpool know that if they want to convert Chinese fans into customers, they need one of the big two.”
Liverpool , however, will have to head off a high court challenge by current kit sponsor New Balance, to strike a new deal with Nike.
It is understood New Balance have a “matching” clause in their current contract, which would allow them to extend their own deal should they offer the same.
And a spokesman for the Anfield club confirmed a court case is brewing, as they look to change manufacturer for the start of the 2020-21 season.
"We can confirm that our kit supplier, New Balance, has commenced a legal dispute against the club. We will not be making any further comment during these legal proceedings,” a statement read.
