San Francisco 49ers Enterprises have ‘intensified’ talks with Andrea Radrizzani over a majority buyout of Leeds United in the event of relegation.
That is according to the Athletic, who claim the Americans are now looking to move to a ‘majority position in the EFL’ despite previous doubts.
49ers currently own a 44% minority stake in Leeds but have a deal worth £420 million in place to take full control from Radrizzani this summer if they are to remain in the Premier League.
Those survival hopes, however, are now dangling by a thread and a fresh agreement will have to be thrashed out in the event of relegation.
Radrizzani now faces losing out on £270 million if Leeds go down with 49ers Enterprises valuing the club at no more than £150 million if they are in the Championship.
49ers keen to secure full buyout of Leeds
The Daily Telegraph reported last month Radrizzani was open to staying at Leeds even in the event of relegation to help rebuild for an immediate return to the Premier League.
However, Radrizzani is now plotting a takeover of Serie A side Sampdoria which is a fresh indication that the Italian could see his future elsewhere.
Radrizzani’s position at the club has come under increasing scrutiny from supporters in recent months and this summer represents a good time for a fresh start.
Leeds fans have expressed their discontent towards the board on regular occasions in the last 12 months and after a difficult season last year, this campaign has somehow managed to be worse.
With relegation now looking extremely likely, a full takeover would inject some much needed positivity into a club which has gone stale after such an enthralling three years under Marcelo Bielsa.
Now is the time to move on.