Liverpool hit £150m jackpot with adidas
By CHRIS BASCOMBE, 03/04/2010
LIVERPOOL will hit the £150million jackpot in a mega new shirt manufacturers' deal with adidas.
The sports giants are to offer the Reds a massive contract extension to rival Manchester United's record-breaking deal with Nike.
Liverpool's current £12m-a-season deal with adidas has two years to run but they have already contacted the club to discuss another TEN years.
They are desperate to reaffirm their commitment to the Reds who, alongside United, blow their Premier League rivals out of the water when it comes to worldwide shirt sales.
adidas are convinced investment is on its way to Anfield and a new board will soon be in place following the £110m debt reduction from the Rhone Group.
They have told Kop MD Christian Purslow they want to start negotiations to renew terms at the earliest opportunity.
adidas also believe star names including Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard will stay beyond this summer, so are moving swiftly to protect their lucrative partnership.
The Reds' revamped commercial team will consider all their options as they look to maximise the club's money-making potential, but they know their relationship with adidas reflects Liverpool's elite status.
United signed a £300m deal with Nike for 13 years in November 2000 - but that included their entire merchandising rights.
Liverpool will be looking to better Chelsea's 10-year deal with adidas which was worth £100m in 2005. They will want a minimum of £15m a year.