Football finance expert Kieran Maguire estimates Leeds United are worth north of £250m amid rumours the San Francisco 49ers are keen on buying the club. The 49ers already have a 44 per cent stake in Leeds, with Andrea Radrizzani holding the other 56 per cent.
However, the Telegraph recently reported the 49ers would be interested in buying out Radrizzani this summer, which would see them take full control of matters at Elland Road. The NFL franchise have steadily increased their stake in the club since they first invested back in 2018 and could be set to stump up the cash to buy Leeds in the near future.
The fact the Whites managed to achieve Premier League survival on the final day of the season with a 2-1 win over Brentford makes Leeds a much more alluring prospect. Had Leeds been relegated, then who knows what the summer would hold for Jesse Marsch's side.
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And Maguire believes Leeds are worth north of £250m, using Newcastle United's £300m October 2021 takeover as a benchmark example.
“All Leeds fans will be delighted the club has maintained its Premier League position,” Maguire told Football Insider. “If we use Newcastle as a benchmark, Leeds is probably not that far behind. I would expect upwards of £250m in terms of their valuation.
“It’s a one-club city and there is scope for future growth, certainly in terms of the stadium.
“The challenge for Leeds is breaking into the elite. That is becoming more and more expensive to achieve. You have to spend upfront before you get the return on that investment.”
