Italian businessman confirms interest in Leeds United takeover

ITALIAN businessman Andrea Radrizzani has confirmed he is in “advanced negotiations” regarding a takeover of Leeds United.

The news follows months of speculation surrounding a potential takeover after it was reported in August that Mr Radrizzani, the co-founder of media rights group MP & Silva, was interested in securing a major stake in the club.

Then, in September, Massimo Cellino bought GFH Capital’s 18% stake, securing full ownership in a move that was believed would make a takeover of the club more appealing to potential buyers.

Bahrain-based GFH acquired the club from Ken Bates in 2012, selling a 75% stake to Mr Cellino in 2014.

Mr Radrizzani told the Straits Times: “Massimo has 100% now and if I do the deal, I will enter the club during this season with 50% and have the option to buy him out completely in June next summer.

“Leeds are exciting. They are a sleeping giant as everyone knows. Probably the only big brand left in English football that could grow in terms of value.”