Manchester United have reportedly agreed to launch a basketball team - as part of NBA Europe plans - with the squad set to compete across major European cities.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe standing on the pitch.
Co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is on the quest for additional revenue streams.
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Manchester United are reportedly set to make a slam dunk into the world of basketball, according to claims from the President of the Italian Basketball Federation, Gianni Petrucci.
Petrucci has stated that the Red Devils have given the green light to join NBA Europe.
The ambitious plans will aim to capitalise on the sport's growing popularity outside the US and across Europe, with major cities such as Manchester hosting 10 or 12 founding franchises.
Speaking to Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport, Petrucci said: "It's a new league that will be good for the system, bringing resources and entertainment.
"The agreement also notes that registered clubs must participate in their respective domestic leagues.
"In a $50 billion (£37.9bn) market, European basketball has a commercial value of just $200 million (£152m).
"An NBA league is precisely the opportunity to increase competitiveness and expand the pool. If Manchester United, the most popular football team in the world, has already said yes, there must be a reason."
The proposed tip-off for NBA Europe is inked-in for the start of the 2027/28 season.
This news comes as United's co-owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, remains on the charge for additional revenue streams to boost the club's finances. Despite record revenues last year, the club continues to bleed money. United have been approached by The Manchester Evening News - and Daily Star - for a comment.
Man Utd co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe (right) and CEO Omar Berrada.
Man Utd co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe (right) and CEO Omar Berrada.
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Should the plans proceed, it wouldn't be the first time that the club has owned a basketball team.
Back in the 1980s, United's basketball side clinched a league championship and drew crowds of around 1,500 at Stretford Sports Centre.
They competed against the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid. However, the franchise was short-lived.
In 1988, they were purchased by a group of local businessmen and then underwent a name change to Manchester Eagles, before becoming Manchester Giants following a merger with Olympic City Giants.
The current team, which are known as Manchester Basketball, was established in 2024, after the British Basketball League and Manchester Giants collapsed.