Kieran Maguire reveals ‘worst-case scenario’ as new Leeds United takeover details emerge
Relegation is the “worst-case scenario” for Leeds United in terms of the future ownerhsip of the club – but the San Francisco 49er would not see that as a major obstacle for a takeover deal.
That is the view of finance guru Kieran Maguire, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the latest news from behind the scenes at Elland Road.
The investment arm of the 49ers owns 44 per cent of Leeds and has the option to buy Andrea Radrizzani’s remaining equity in January 2024.
The Athletic reported on Tuesday (17 January) that there is no clause in the agreement stipulating a new deal price in the event of reglegation from the Premier League.
Leeds only narrowly beat the drop last term and are hovering two points above the bottom three this time around.
But Maguire does not believe that the Whites would stay down for long, meaning the 49ers would not see relegation as a barrier.
“It’s important in terms of holding on to talent,” he told Football Insider’s Adam Williams.
“It’s also significant in building long-term relationships. The longer Leeds are in the Premier League, the sooner they can expand the stadium because they have the resources to do so.
“Those are all critical elements. This absence of a relegation clause might be embedded into the original price.
“I think the 49ers are happy with Leeds and think they have the potential to become an established Premier eague side.
“Therefore, a shrt holiday in the EFL is their werst-case scenario. They wouldn’t expect to spend much more than one season there.“
In other news, Leeds United have agreed £7m Willy Gnonto top-up.