Kieran Maguire: 49ers could now U-turn on £400m Leeds United takeover
It is possible that the San Francisco 49ers may be content with their role as minority shareholders in Leeds United.
That is the view of finance guru Kieran Maguire, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the ownership dynamics behind the scenes at Elland Road.
The 49ers, one of the world’s biggest American football franchises, first bought into Leeds in 2018 and have steadily increased their shareholding to 44 per cent.
The Athletic reported in December last year that the 49ers have the option to buy Andrea Radrizzani’s remaining equity in the West Yorkshire club for £400million-plus.
Per the same outlet on Tuesday (6 September), 49ers representatives were present for the Whites’ recent 1-1 draw with Everton.
It is claimed that they are discussing financial plans with a view to a complete takeover, although a timescale is unclear.
But Maguire argues that it is not a given that the 49ers will pull the trigger on a full buyout.
“The 49ers will be assessing things at Leeds,” he told Football Insider’s Adam Williams.
“It could be that they are quite happy to have a minority relationship with the club.
“Remember, their focus will be on making a financial return on their investment should they become majority shareholders.
“They are an organisation which is geared towards the numbers. They also have to ensure the success of the other companies that are part of their overall empire.”
Radrizzani bought Leeds for £45m in 2017.
The value of the club skyrocketed immediately upon their return to the Premier League ahead of 2020-21.
In other news, Leeds United and Fulham race to sign Aberdeen sensation Lewis Pirie.