Reports are emerging from Italy that Leeds United owner Andrea Radrizzani was spotted entering the Sampdoria training base ahead of buying the club – and if he does take over, he has a decision to make on Ronaldo Vieira.
With the 49ers now likely to buy Leeds outright whatever division the club are in next season, Radrizzani is looking for a swift move. Sampdoria seems to be his next port of call, and he was seen entering the Bogliasco training base.
A club that are already relegated, from Serie A. He told Sky Sports reporters upon entering – as per Gianluca Di Marzio’s website – that he is hopeful of a takeover, and has his fingers crossed. Radrizzani was joined by two others.
Partner Matteo Manfredi, as well as Jordan Rocca – who Di Marzio reports is a young Genoese entrepreneur. So, it looks as if Radrizzani will sell Leeds, even if it is at a reduced cost due to relegation. He will then buy Sampdoria.
Leeds owner Radrizzani will have Vieira decision to make at Sampdoria
But he will have a big decision to make when he arrives. Ronaldo Vieira, a player Leeds fans know well, remains on the books at Sampdoria – but joined Torino on loan in January. He’s struggled, playing just three times due to injury.
Torino have the option to buy 24-year-old Vieira – who played 71 times for Leeds before Radrizzani rubber stamped his exit in 2018 to join Sampdoria. Given his lack of game time and injuries, that option is unlikely to be exercised.
Vieira is likely, then, to reunite with Radrizzani at Sampdoria and the current Leeds owner will have a decision to make. Keep him, with his contract running until 2027 – or cash in? Vieira himself may prefer to leave Sampdoria.
Especially, given relegation. But it remains to be seen if there will be interest in his services given his injuries and lack of game time. Either way, if Radrizzani takes over at Sampdoria, he will have a decision to make on Vieira.
