Leeds United to benefit after breaking Rangers takeover news
Leeds United are set to benefit from becoming part of a multi-club ownership in more ways than one if the latest regarding 49ers Enterprises and Rangers further develops.
In a major breakthrough this week, a US-based consortium propped up largely by Leeds owner Paraag Marathe has advanced further in talks to become the new owners of the Scottish giants.
Leeds – who in their partnership with Red Bull are already part of a global sporting network – could be about to enter another wider empire as Marathe works overtime to get the Rangers takeover complete.
The major obstacle in obtaining Gers for the American party is convincing several scattered shareholders to sell their respective stakes, with many ranging between seven per cent and 13 per cent of the Ibrox club.
Rangers deal could benefit Leeds says broadcaster
Leeds United could receive benefits from 49ers Enterprises backing the Rangers takeover, according to Ian Darke.
Sky Sports reported in a breaking update on Monday (3 March) that 49ers have reached a multi-million-pound deal in principle to purchase at least 51 per cent in the Gers.
TV commentator and broadcaster Darke, speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, believes the Whites can expand their contacts and maximise opportunities from being among ‘sister clubs’, in the same way Red Bull operate their sporting network and how Manchester City, Chelsea and others work.
“I think the Rangers takeover, if it happens, could affect Leeds in a good way,” Darke said.
“Because the further your tentacles spread, the wider your contacts and the easier to do business within your little empire. You’ve seen it with Red Bull.
“It may not be a bad thing – I know the Leeds fans might worry about where their club’s money is spent – but I think you have to embrace the modern era and the way things are going.”
Leeds United squad focused on Premier League
Regardless of what happens upstairs in the boardroom, Leeds United and their squad, backroom staff and Daniel Farke are tunnel-visioned towards doing enough to reach the Premier League.
| 49ers Enterprises x Leeds United | From |
| Minority investor | 24 May 2018 |
| Full ownership | 9 June 2023 |
Leeds are on course to earn between 99 and 100 points this season in a ruthless attempt to storm back to the top flight, having found the hard way last year that their total of 90 was insufficient.
It comes with potential for the Whites’ players that a link-up with Rangers in the future may see player trading rise between the two, though it is such a short career in professional football that these possibilities are very marginal sliding-doors moments that cannot be dwelled upon when trying to do your job on the pitch.