Leeds United moves to quash ‘latest bout of speculation’
LEEDS United and GFH Capital have issued a joint statement to counter what they claim is “ongoing speculation” concerning a proposed deal between the two parties.
Both organisations said they were responding to the “latest bout of speculation”, which they said included a number of inaccurate media reports and a statement from the Leeds United Supporters Trust which stated the group had been in direct contact with GFH Capital.
David Haigh, deputy chief executive of GFH Capital, said: “A lot of nonsense has been written and said by people claiming to have ‘sources’ or inside knowledge, which has resulted in incorrect media reports and even quotes, but as noted before there are confidentiality clauses that are in place, and we are both respectful of those.
“We are focusing on the transaction and not rumour. The importance for us to talk to the numerous fans and supporter groups of Leeds United on the acquisition of the club cannot be underestimated but at this time, we have to respect the confidentialities of a deal of this nature.
“As such, neither I nor any employee of GFH Capital has been in discussions with the LUST. This is clear from some of the detail within a recent statement from LUST, notably, how GFH Capital ‘has only emerged as potential buyers in the last six weeks.’ In truth, GFH Capital has been working with the current club owners since June.”
Salem Patel, GFH Capital board director and chief investment officer, said: “Both GFH Capital and the current owners of Leeds United are working hard to ensure as swift a conclusion to this deal as possible and we appreciate the patience and understanding of those waiting for a positive announcement. We will be talking to the various Leeds United supporter groups and their members as soon as we are able.”
Leeds United chief executive Shaun Harvey said: “There has been a lot of comments from many different quarters as to the proposed investment in Leeds United. As with all speculation not all of it’s correct. And we are pleased that both are able to clarify the situation.”
