Kieran Maguire issues verdict on 49ers finalising Leeds United takeover within weeks as new clause revealed
Kieran Maguire has claimed “domestic issues” and the threat of relegation could prevent the San Francisco 49ers from making a full purchase of Leeds United in January 2023.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the football finance guru suggested the American outfit are “still getting their feet under the table” at Elland Road.
The 49ers first bought a stake in Leeds United in 2018 and have since increased their shareholding to 44 per cent – with Andrea Radrizzani in control of the remaining 56 per cent.
MOT Leeds News revealed last week (20 November) that the 49ers have the option to complete a full takeover from Radrizzani in January 2023.
It is not yet whether that potential deal will be at a discount to another clause confirmed by the Italian – which sees the deadline for a full buyout set for January 2024.
Leeds United sit 15th in the Premier League after narrowly avoiding relegation to the Championship last term.
Maguire claimed an upturn in on-pitch results could mean the 49ers launch a full buyout in the new year.
He told Football Insider’s finance & governance correspondent Adam Williams: “The 49ers have a good relationship with Andrea Radrizzani.
“They’re still getting their feet under the table at the club with Paraag Marathe and his involvement.
“But remember, American investors are also facing higher interest charges and some other challenges back home in the US.
“I think the focus would be on domestic issues before necessarily making a full acquisition of Leeds United.
“It could be that if results are good when the Premier League comes back, they could feel more positive about doing that deal.
“There’s always the outside chance of relegation, and that is impacting the likelihood of a 2023 deal.”
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