DELVING into the transfer market has done wonders for Arsenal’s self-esteem. After years insisting that their new stadium was not diverting funds from the team, Keith Edelman, the managing director, yesterday moved on to the front foot, claiming that the club’s gate receipts next season will be the highest in world football. Perhaps Arsenal, rather than Fulham, are destined to become the Manchester United of the South after all.

With the 60,000-seat Emirates Stadium on course to sell out in its initial season, Arsenal are predicting match-day revenue in excess of £70 million, more than double the £33 million they made at Highbury during the 2003-04 season. Manchester United recorded receipts of £61.2 million during the same season with their 67,000 capacity at Old Trafford, making more than £1 million in excess of their rivals at every home game, but Arsenal are confident that their higher ticket prices will enable them to set a record figure.

Chelsea’s prices are at a similar level, but, hampered by a 42,000 capacity, they made £45 million in the year ending June 2004. Arsenal, who move into their new home next summer, will definitely top that to take the most money on the gate in London, though the addition of an extra 8,000 seats at Old Trafford this summer means that United can also expect increased revenue.

“We will earn significantly more revenue at the new stadium, so we don’t have any financial issues,” Edelman said. “Our gate income in the new stadium will probably be the highest in the world.” He also rejected claims made by Sir Alex Ferguson, the United manager, who has said that Arsenal will struggle to sell 60,000 tickets on a regular basis. The club have already sold 45,000 season tickets, leaving 3,000 for away supporters and 12,000 to go on sale to their 100,000 members.