The contract follows on from similar ‘platinum sponsor’ tie-ups with Air Asia, Budweiser, Audi and Kumho Tyres and comes on the back of some hugely impressive performances in both domestic and European combat by Alex Ferguson’s men this season.

However, while Gill acknowledges football success on the field is a prime factor in commercial success off it, he feels there is far more to United than just winning trophies.

“The success of the team is a factor but it is not a case that we are getting all these new deals because we are doing well this season,” he said.

“We did one of the biggest shirt sponsorship deals in the history of football with AIG last year when we were out of the Champions League, chasing Chelsea in the league and had been knocked out of the FA Cup by Liverpool.

“It is not only about playing winning football. It is about the attractiveness of it. It is about the ground and its history and the heritage of the club, as well as the recognition Manchester United will be there or thereabouts in terms of trophies most years.”

Gill has confirmed the cash generated by the Royals Resort deal will help finance any major transfer market moves in the summer.

United are committed to strengthening Ferguson’s squad, with Owen Hargreaves topping the list of potential signings.

“We will be pitching for players,” he said. “We bought Michael Carrick and Tomasz Kuszczak last summer and we will continue to invest in the team as necessary. The funds are there.”

Nine points clear at the Premiership summit, well placed to overcome Lille and clinch a place in the Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday and favourites to overcome Middlesbrough in the FA Cup on Saturday, United are enjoying the kind of success many predicted they would never have under the Glazer family.

Although rebel club FC United continue to enjoy unprecedented support at their level of the non-league pyramid, the ‘big’ United have steamrollered on.

“If you wind the clock back there was clearly some turmoil prior to the takeover,” said Gill.

“Change is always something you have to think about but I spent some time with the family and got to understand what they were all about. They have been true to their word.

“They have been there when we have needed them. Obviously, you never know but it has worked out pretty well for everyone; the fans, the staff, the manager and the team.”