Speaking on the BBC Radio Five Live Football Daily Podcast, New York Times journalist, Rory Smith, has been discussing Leeds United’s summer budget and a potential takeover from the San Francisco 49ers.
Smith was discussing Leeds’ summer transfer plans with Micah Richards on the podcast, and the journalist claimed that Leeds will not have a massive amount of money to spend this summer.
However, the reporter states that he expects that to change rather quickly as he believes that the San Francisco 49ers could soon become the majority shareholders of Leeds United.
What’s been said?
Smith spoke about Leeds’ budget and ownership.
“How much money do Leeds actually have to spend?” Micah Richards asked.
“Not a vast amount, that’s another problem, but I think that will change this summer as I suspect they’ll be bought out by the San Francisco 49ers, they already own 40 something per cent of the club and I think they will increase to become majority shareholders over the summer,” Smith said.
Problem
If Leeds fans are expecting a buy-out from the 49ers to give them spending power this summer, then they could have a problem.
While Smith suspects that a takeover could happen, just last week Andrea Radrizzani denied any plans for such a deal to take place this summer, and that means that United may not have all that much to spend.
Luckily though, player sales should help Leeds boost their coffers. Barcelona are reportedly keen on a move for Raphinha that would bring in big money, while Jack Harrison has also been linked with both Tottenham and Newcastle.
Radrizzani may not be able to pump money into Leeds in the same way the 49ers would, but don’t be too shocked if the Whites are very busy this summer.
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