Leeds have agreed to sell the Club to 49ers.
The San Francisco 49ers, owners of the NFL team, initially acquired a 15% share in Leeds in 2018 and subsequently increased their ownership to 44% in 2021. Meanwhile, Italian businessman Radrizzani had purchased Leeds outright in 2017 for £45m, but his stake has since decreased to 56%. Leeds United, currently without a manager, faced relegation from the Premier League on the last day of the season and is now preparing for the Championship.
Following the team’s relegation, the Leeds United Supporters Club issued a statement expressing their dissatisfaction with Radrizzani, deeming him unsuitable as the owner of the club. They criticized his behavior and stated that he is no longer welcome at the club. The supporters club eagerly awaits the acceptance of the offer from 49ers Enterprises, believing it to be a positive step forward. They believe that Radrizzani can begin to salvage his reputation only through an immediate sale of the club and the stadium.
Leeds United released an official statement which reads: “Leeds United can confirm an agreement has been reached between Aser Ventures and 49ers Enterprises for the purchase of the club.
“Both parties continue to work through the details, and further updates will be provided soon. All of our focus remains on a quick return to the Premier League.”
According to the Press Association, a new valuation of approximately £170m has been agreed upon, as the previous agreement, which was dependent on Leeds’ survival in the Premier League, had a value of around £400m. Negotiations were reopened following the team’s relegation to the second tier. Additionally, Radrizzani’s Aser Holding Company recently acquired a stake in the Italian club Sampdoria.
