Insurance giant AIG is set to become the first Fortune 500 company to invest in an English women’s football team after agreeing to acquire a stake in Salford City Lionesses.

The move is part of an expansion of the partnership between AIG and Salford City, the club co-owned by former Manchester United stars Gary Neville and David Beckham.

AIG invested in Salford City last year and quickly became its largest shareholder. It is now also front-of-shirt, training kit and stadium sponsor.

In a further development, England star turned media pundit Jill Scott has joined Salford as chief women’s football advisor.

“We are incredibly grateful to AIG for their commitment to Salford City and this amazing investment in the Lionesses,” said Neville. 

“We’re fortunate to have the backing of a world-class brand, which will be right behind our Women’s and Men’s teams in their next chapter.”

AIG president Eric Andersen ​said: “We ​are proud to ​expand our commitment ​to Salford City ​ahead of this exciting next stage of growth. 

“​Our interest in supporting the Lionesses reflects AIG’s long-term commitment to advancing opportunities for women in business, sport and society, building on our investment in the AIG Women’s Open, which has elevated women’s professional golf. 

“We’re excited to support the creation of professional opportunities and career pathways for the Salford City Lionesses, on and off the pitch.”

AIG now Salford City shirt, training kit and stadium sponsor

The partnership with the insurer – a sponsor of Manchester United during Neville and Beckham’s years at the club – will also see Salford City wear a change kit in “AIG blue”.

No financial details of the deal have been disclosed, nor the size of AIG’s proposed stake in Salford City Lionesses.

Scott’s arrival comes despite her playing history with Manchester City and strengthens her connection to Neville, alongside whom she appears on the Stick To Football YouTube show.

Salford City Lionesses are yet to mirror the men’s team’s ascent to the professional ranks and currently play in the sixth tier of English women’s football.

“I’m incredibly excited to be stepping into this new role, helping to drive the Lionesses forward and achieve our powerful ambitions,” said Scott. 

“With the backing and knowledge of AIG, and a team of passionate, talented people at Salford, I have no doubt that the years ahead will be some of our most memorable yet.”