Leeds United braced for ‘astonishing’ fire sale after update – sources
Leeds United must recoup an astonishing £150million in player sales if they fail to win promotion back to the Premier League, sources have told Football Insider.
A dramatic fire sale is lined up at Elland Road if they don’t come out on top in their win-at-all-costs play-off final showdown against Southampton at Wembley.
Leeds reportedly owe £190million for Andrea Radrizzani-era transfers, while their latest financial accounts revealed a £33.7million loss after player sales.
Football Insider revealed earlier this month the Whites could be forced to sell some of their star players if they don’t achieve promotion as £73.6million of the outstanding transfer fees are due to be paid by the end of June.
Daniel Farke’s side have a chance to ensure that might not be necessary if they can overcome Southampton in the play-off final as the ramifications of defeat become even starker.
Leeds United could be forced to sell star players
Leeds and Southampton have both responded well to their relegations last season after finishing third and fourth in the Championship table.
The Whites booked their place at Wembley following a convincing 4-0 victory over Norwich City, while the Saints secured a 3-1 win over West Brom.
It has been revealed the winning side could earn more than £305million over the next three seasons if they avoid relegation in their first campaign back in the Premier League.
That influx of cash could go a long way towards ensuring Farke can keep hold of his star players, with the likes of Crysencio Summerville, Archie Gray and Willy Gnonto all expected to receive attention after catching the eye this season.
Summerville is likely to receive the most attention after being named the Championship Player of the Season, with Football Insider revealing earlier this month he will leave Elland Road if Leeds don’t go up.
Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness told Football Insider he is “worried” for whichever side fails to secure an instant return to the Premier League after admitting the play-off final is the “most profitable game in football”.
In other news, Leeds plan to accept £12million midfielder bid.
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