Kieran Maguire: Radrizzani in ‘£80m’ Leeds-49ers ‘dilemma’ as inside source reveals transfer latest
Leeds United must balance the £80million threat of relegation with the effect that big-money signings could have on the club’s takeover value.
That is the view of finance guru Kieran Maguire, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the complex state of play at Elland Road.
A Leeds source told this site on Saturday (18 December) that they are in the market for two midfielders this January after being ravaged by injuries.
That represents a departure from the relegations strugglers’ previous transfer plan, which was for a repeat of last season’s quiet winter window.
The San Francisco 49ers, who currently own a 44 per cent stake in Leeds, reportedly have an agreement in place for a full takeover after 2024.
Maguire claimed that is one of a number of variables that must be weighed up before the decision makers at Leeds decide to spend big in January.
“It’s a dilemma for Radrizzani,” he told Football Insider‘s Adam Williams.
“If the rumours are true, the final price payable by 49ers would be linked to profit.
“If you invest in players, you’re going to have higher wages and your amortisation costs are going to go up.
“At the same time, it could preserve your Premier League status. Relegation is probably worth around £80m, which is not something anyone wants to forfeit.
“That’s one of the reasons you can sell a Premier League club for a much higher price than you can in the Championship.”
Marcelo Bielsa‘s side are currently 16th in the Premier League and have won just one of their last eight matches.
Three of the four teams below them in the table have played fewer games.
In other news, pundit blasts “farce of a statement” as clubs line up to sign Leeds United player.