Manchester United reported a 22 percent rise in annual profits on Tuesday boosted by their many sponsorship deals and the hosting of the Champions League final.

The premier league champions, currently third in the standings and subject of persistent takeover speculation, unveiled pre-tax profits for the year to July 31 of 39.3 million pounds ($64.81 million) compared to forecasts of around 43 million pounds.

Takeover rumours have intensified as high profile investors increased their stakes in the club. Speculation has been rife that a billionaire like Chelsea's Roman Abramovich may be looking at buying the leading English club.

"We have continued to leverage our global brand through our partnerships with Nike, Vodafone and our Platinum sponsors... Looking ahead we will maintain our focus on achieving playing success while delivering continued strong performances from our commercial operations," said new chief executive David Gill.

Player trading profits were 12.9 million pounds due largely to the transfer of England captain David Beckham to Real Madrid, but were down from last year's profit of 17.4 million pounds.

Wage costs rose 12 percent or 8.7 million pounds, to give a wages to turnover ratio of 46 percent, well within the club's target of 50 percent.

The club's shares have risen strongly from a low of 85 pence last November as key investors such as Irish racehorse magnates John Paul McManus and John Magnier have built up their stakes. The shares closed on Monday at 200p.