Leeds news: Keith Wyness responds to Red Bull concerns as five deals agreed
Everton’s former chief Keith Wyness has claimed Leeds United fans should not be concerned about the focus of Red Bull after they announced deals with several top-flight clubs.
Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, the 66-year-old – who served as CEO at Goodison Park between 2004 and 2009 and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – insisted the energy drink giant have a “big interest” in the Whites, whereas sponsorship deals are solely about increasing market share.
Red Bull took a minority ownership stake at Elland Road in May and also became Leeds’ new front-of-shirt sponsor.
They have since agreed energy drink partnerships with Newcastle United, West Ham, Nottingham Forest, Everton and Crystal Palace.
Red Bull are a big player in the sports world and are backers of a dominant Formula One team as well as Bundesliga club RB Leipzig, who are now an established Champions League side.
Red Bull’s Premier League deals are not a concern for Leeds, says Wyness
Wyness told Football Insider‘s Insider Track podcast: “There’ll be no concern at Leeds. With Leeds, Red Bull have got equity in the club – so it’s different to being a sponsor.
“I think they’ve got a big interest in Leeds and the club are pushing ahead with the stadium plans, which shows their ambition.
“We all know Leeds are a massive club and they deserve that new stadium. Elland Road has passed it’s sell-by date for many reasons.
“Red Bull are big in football, it’s something which has worked for them.
“They’re a big player and they’re just trying to protect their market share by sponsoring these other clubs in the football market.”
In other news, Leeds will have to make “hefty pay-off” to sack Daniel Farke.
For more Leeds United news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.