Manchester’s Lowry Hotel – currently thought to be home to several of Manchester United’s expensive summer signings – has been bought by Westmont Hospitality Group (WHG) and its investment partner Mount Kellett Capital Management for a reported £40m.

Newly-arrived United stars Marcos Rojo, Radamel Falcao, Louis Van Gaal, Daley Blind and Angel di Maria have all been photographed at the five-star hotel in recent weeks, which was sold by Rocco Forte Hotels this week.

WHG – which has strategic alliances with hotel brands including Intercontinental, Fairmont, Leading Hotels of the World, Hilton and Marriott – will now operate the site, but it is to retain the existing senior management team.

A spokesperson for the hotel group told Leisure Opportunities that the 158-room Lowry would now be subject to a refurbishment programme, which will see improvements made to the suites, foyer and reception area. They were unable to confirm the reported selling price for the hotel – which opened in 2001.

Speaking after the sale, Sir Rocco Forte said: “I am very proud that we created the Lowry as a first-class hotel in 2001 with an outstanding team and, in the process, played a role in the renaissance which Manchester has enjoyed in recent years. I wish the team at the Lowry, its customers, and its new owners the very best for the future.”