Leeds United are in talks about a possible takeover. It would be just what the club need.
Relegated in 2004, Leeds United were the club who sailed too close to the sun.
Champions League semi-finalists one minute, the next thing they knew they were preparing to face Coventry City in the Championship.
In January 2005 they were bought by Ken Bates, a controversial figure if ever there was one. In the following seven years has his leadership taken Leeds forward?
The answer to that one is not a positive one. His tenure has overseen numerous managers, and protests, and an arduous spell in League One.
Protests can be dated back well over five years, when Leeds entered administration. Fortunately they came out the other side of that dark hole, but in 2012, supporters remain keener than ever to see the back of the Bates era.
Now it appears their prayers may be answered, and right now it appears too good to be true.
The Yorkshire Post has reported that investment ‘“from the Middle East” is poised to arrive at Elland Road after an unnamed group agreed in principle a deal to purchase the club.
It all sounds quite exciting for fans, who will feel any challenges their new owners present, can’t possibly be worse than another seven years under Bates’ ownership.
The mystery will be short-lived, Leeds will surely find out the exact identity and backgrounds of their potential new owners if a deal is confirmed.
What matters the most is that they have money. If so then Leeds fans can begin to dream.
Leeds infrastructure; big stadium, committed fans – combined with low position and disenchanted support make them prime for a takeover.
The club also have Neil Warnock in charge – a man who has proved, if given the right tools, he can take a club out of the Championship.
If he is backed properly this summer, and Leeds need to get the takeover tied up soon while the transfer window is still open, then the club can have a real shot at promotion.
Their squad needs strengthening, and investment would allow them to do so, if the buyout comes to nothing, then another season of standing still in the Championship under Bates beckons.
Can a takeover help put Leeds back where they feel they belong?
image: © Chris Robertshaw
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