The move will see them share with rugby league club the Salford City Reds. The sharks are used to lodging with strangers though, as they currently share their territory with Stockport County Football Club.
While Sale have helped Stockport FC out financially, the football team won't be too sad to see them go as hosting the rough rugby there doesn't make for ideal kicking conditions come soccer matchdays.
I was at the press conference today where many of those involved in the club were present. It was the first time the players had seen where they will play next year. Please view my slideshow:
Of course most knew what was coming, as the pitch is rather obvious from the bridge. But that's part of the point. It's a beautiful stadium which will serve as its own advertisement from the millions of cars and lorries which pass by each day.
Our thoughts should also be with Stockport County- another financially struggling sporting institution. But according to Sale's co-owner, Ian Blackhurst, who has done his bit to help the football club:
"They support what we're doing here. We're in negotiation with them. We're friends."
It's nice to hear of cross-sport companionship- and certainly it's better to build bridges rather than burn them.
