Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express.
Man Utd in talks to ‘replicate Ryan Reynolds move’ as Sir Jim Ratcliffe gets creative
Man Utd look set to take inspiration from Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney's success at Wrexham as Sir Jim Ratcliffe attempts to drive change.
Manchester United are reportedly in negotiations with Disney regarding a multi-million-pound deal to create documentaries about the club's era of dominance under Sir Alex Ferguson. Sir Jim Ratcliffe is monitoring avenues to generate revenue while cutting costs at Old Trafford at the start of his co-ownership.
Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds have significantly benefitted from their successful documentary series 'Welcome to Wrexham', which follows the Hollywood pair's journey as owners of the Welsh club.
The series, shown on the Disney+ streaming service, has drawn attention to Wrexham from all over the world, making the club's uprise through the English football ladder one of football's most gripping stories.
It has unquestionably helped the Red Dragons' revenues soar since Reynolds and McElhenney took over, funding marquee signings and a new Kop stand at the famous Racecourse Stadium, among other aspects.
Wrexham secured back-to-back promotions this season and will play in League One in 2024/25 after ending a 15-year stay in the National League in 2023.
United could hope a partnership with Disney can support the club in driving change under the INEOS regime on matters like the redevelopment of Old Trafford and adhering to Financial Fair Play limits.
Watch all the Premier League and Champions League drama unfold on TNT Sports
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
According to The Athletic, discussions are underway with the US entertainment platform, but a deal hasn't yet been agreed as the Red Devils seek improved terms.
Disney's current offer is said to be lower than when they first held talks with United a couple of years ago, but nothing came to fruition.
It's claimed the documentary would focus on Ferguson's legendary 26-year reign at Old Trafford, in which he lifted 38 trophies and took the club to the summit of world football.
The iconic Scot, now 82, won 13 Premier League titles, two Champions Leagues and five FA Cups among his relentless haul. He would reportedly provide substantial interview time for the Disney production.
Don't miss...
What Erik ten Hag did in Man Utd dressing room after Coventry win speaks volumes [REPORT]
Liverpool in £69m transfer fight with Man Utd for player who is an Arsenal fan [TRANSFERS]
Thomas Tuchel could transform Man Utd star's career if he takes Ten Hag's job [LATEST]
The report adds that United ambassadors would also offer insight into the secrets of Ferguson's success, and the club are expected to release archive footage to complement the coverage.
However, United are set to retain editorial control, and talks with Disney haven't included the prospect of creating a fly-on-the-wall series following a season.
Arsenal, Manchester City, and Tottenham Hotspur are among the clubs that have sanctioned those on Amazon Prime.
Amazon will soon release a three-part docuseries about United's treble-winning 1998/99 campaign to mark the achievement's 25th anniversary. However, the M16 giants won't directly benefit financially, having played no role in negotiations.