Salford Red Devils open talks with businessman after investment reports and 'proposal to buy AJ Bell Stadium'

Salford Red Devils rugby league club have opened talks with local businessman, Sebastian Gerrard, following reports that he wants to buy the AJ Bell Stadium and invest in the Super League club, it has been revealed.

The cash-strapped Red Devils were considering moving to The Peninsula Stadium owned by Salford City Football Club, who had proposed to buy the AJ Bell Stadium in conjunction with current co-tenants Sale Sharks, because of the prohibitive cost of rent.

However, they could now remain at the AJ Bell Stadium, which has been their home since moving out of The Willows 10 years ago, following discussions with Mr Gerrard, who is believed to be the managing director of a Swinton-based building company. The club pointed to 'recent news reports' regarding a proposal to buy the AJ Bell Stadium.

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Red Devils managing director Paul King said further investment would 'unlock' the club's potential. He said: "It’s no secret that Salford Red Devils operate without a benefactor in Super League and with that a much leaner financial situation.

"Further investment would unlock potential as an elite sports organisation in the Salford and Greater Manchester region. Personally, I wish Sebastian every success with the proposal as it is further evidence that rugby league is a valued asset to this region."

Whatever the outcome of the talks, Salford say they will remain in their current home until at least the end of the 2023 season. The 12,000 capacity ground next to the M60 motorway at Barton is currently jointly owned by Salford council and property and land giant Peel.

Sale have played at the AJ Bell since 2012 and announced in 2018 that they would move