Six Premier League clubs to take part in "summer series" tournament in USA
The Premier League is ready to announce a new "summer series" tournament involving six teams in the United States.
Chelsea have been confirmed as one of the clubs taking part in the the new pre-season tournament, which is set to be held in a number of cities across the US. Newcastle, Aston Villa, Brentford and Brighton and Hove Albion are also involved following their impressive seasons in England's top flight.
The Athletic reports that Leeds United could be named as the sixth team, but that decision will only be finalised if Javi Gracia's side avoid relegation to the Championship. The tournament is expected to get under way at the end of July and acts as an exciting opportunity to capitalise on growing interest in the Premier League Stateside.
It had been reported that the US had been planning on hosting an "enhanced" pre-season tournament last year with the goal of hosting more meaningful matches between Premier League teams.
The coronavirus pandemic halted those plans, but the green light has now been given for a tournament that draws similarities with the Premier League's Asia Trophy.
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The US has taken inspiration from NFL games begin successfully held in London, as well as NBA fixtures being played in Paris. And the inclusion of Chelsea, now owned by American Todd Boehly, represents a coup for tournament organisers, with huge support for the west London club already across the Atlantic.
Todd Boehly's Chelsea will take part in the new summer tournament (IKIMAGES/AFP via Getty Images)
Newcastle could enter the "summer series" as the only Champions League club (Getty Images)Newcastle, meanwhile, will be among the teams looking to expand their global fanbase and Eddie Howe's men could well begin preparations for the 2023-24 campaign as a Champions League club.
The tournament is seen to have huge revenue growth potential for the Premier League, as well as providing a huge boost in interest from a US audience as the country ramps up preparations for hosting the 2026 World Cup.
Manchester United have already confirmed they will be touring the US for the first time in five years, but Erik ten Hag's side will not be involved in the "summer series."
United have so far announced that they will face German giants Borussia Dortmund and Wrexham, owned by actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, in their warm up matches.
Leaders Arsenal are also heading to the US this summer and will play an MLS All-Stars team managed by United great Wayne Rooney in Washington D.C. in July.
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