Manchester City and baseball giants the New York Yankees have formed an agreement to purchase an expansion franchise in Major League Soccer, it has been announced.
New York City Football Club will become the 20th club in MLS in 2015 after a deal worth around 100million US dollars (£66million) was concluded.
The two clubs and MLS announced the partnership after a meeting at the league's headquarters in central New York.
City hope the arrangement will help to expand their profile in the United States, while it is also a potential extra source of income and players.
City chief executive Ferran Soriano said: "New York is a legendary sports town, as well as a thriving global city with a rapidly expanding soccer fanbase.
"We are thrilled to contribute to the energy and growth of New York City soccer.
"In the Yankees, we have found the absolute best partner for developing a world-class sports organisation and a winning team that will carry the New York City Football Club name with pride."
City will be the majority owner of the new venture, with the Yankees, who previously had a commercial agreement with Manchester United, being an active member of the ownership group.
The new club does not presently have a home but discussions are under way over the construction of a new stadium at Flushing Meadows in the Queens borough of the city. They will play at a temporary location until a development is completed.
MLS commissioner Don Garber said: "We proudly welcome two of the most prestigious global sports organisations to Major League Soccer. This is a transformational development that will elevate the league to new heights in this country."
Source: PA
