US golfers buy shares in prospective Leeds United owners

American golfers Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas have bought shares in Leeds United’s prospective owners.

Investment group 49ers Enterprises have agreed a deal to buy the controlling stake of Andrea Radrizzani in Leeds.

A £400m agreement for 49ers Enterprises to take over Leeds from chairman Radrizzani was reached before their relegation, but a new £170m deal was reached after they went down.

Rickie Fowler pulled out after the club’s relegation.

“Relegation wasn’t ideal, but we got involved with the 49ers group,” Spieth told Sky Sports.

“We thought it would be a cool opportunity.”

The takeover is not yet ratified by the English Football League.

The investment arm of the San Francisco 49ers have had a stake in Leeds since 2018, initially 15% and then 44%.

Spieth added: “It’s a big city, historic club, great venue in Elland Road, and once we looked into it we realised it could be really exciting.

“They renegotiated after relegation and it was possibly a better deal – as long as they can get promoted soon.

“It’s done, myself and Justin with a minority stake. The 49ers beat my [Dallas] Cowboys every year, so if you can’t beat them, join them.”