Richard Branson was unveiled as Manchester United’s latest signing today, as Virgin Money agreed a new partnership with the club ahead of the 2016-17 Premier League season.

The four-year deal sees Virgin Money become the Official Retail Financial Services Partner of Manchester United in the UK.

The new agreement means customers will soon be able to take advantage of a range of attractive products, including Manchester United credit cards and savings accounts. Customers taking one of the new products will get exclusive access to a range of club-related rewards and benefits, with further announcements to be made in the coming days.

Richard Branson, Founder of the Virgin Group, said: "Virgin and Manchester United have very similar philosophies – we both want to change the game, not just play it. The two coming together under this new partnership with Virgin Money will create something really special".

Richard Arnold, Group Managing Director of Manchester United, was equally upbeat: "This exciting partnership brings together for the first time two iconic brands; two industry leaders who have a reputation as innovators in their fields. I have every confidence the values we share will make this partnership a great success, above all for our loyal fans who will soon be introduced to a range of products that will bring them even closer to the club they support".

Jayne-Anne Gadhia, Chief Executive Officer of Virgin Money, added: "We're proud to be the official UK financial services partner of Manchester United FC. This new partnership enables us to combine Virgin Money's excellent financial products and customer service with the reach of Manchester United, one of the biggest football clubs in the world.

"We're going to create some very special products and exclusive offers designed especially for fans, with real rewards that money can’t buy. We’ll be launching those soon and can't wait to get started. Come on you reds!"