Kieran Maguire: Leeds United ‘a long way away’ from 49ers takeover as ‘worry’ emerges
The 49ers see “incredible potential” in Leeds United but are cautious of overpaying for the Yorkshire club given the risk of relegation.
That is the opinion of finance expert Kieran Maguire, who spoke exclusively to Football Insider about the reservations the 49ers have regarding a potential takeover at Elland Road.
Football Insider sources revealed last Tuesday (14 February) that the 49ers actively factored in the prospect of relegation when they negotiated a set fee to take a controlling stake in Leeds United.
The investors have increased their stake in Leeds to 44 per cent in 2021 after initially buying a 15 per cent stake in the club back in 2018.
Maguire, however, insists a full takeover between the two parties is still “a long way away”, with the American investors still cautious about overpaying for the club.
“We’re a long way away from getting the 49ers deal over the line,” he told Football Insider’s Adam Williams.
“From the 49ers’ perspective – they don’t want to overpay.
“They’re aware that they are acquiring a club with a fantastically proud history but there is also worry about the risk given that it took 16 years for them to return.
“So you can understand there being caveats and concerns with regard to the potential deal at the same time.
“I think the 49ers are fully aware of the incredible potential at Leeds, especially in terms of developing the stadium and monetising the fans.
“Leeds is one of those clubs which can attract fans from not just the UK, but they need to get everybody pointing in the same direction for that to take place.”
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