Dr Dan: Leeds United would suffer losses to the tune of £60m if they get relegated
We’re delighted to welcome football finance expert Dr Daniel Plumley as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Leeds United...
Leeds United may be reluctant to spend big in January, given their precarious position in the Premier League.
That’s according to Dr Dan Plumley, who claims that relegation would be a massive financial blow for the Whites.
This could factor into their decision making and allocation of funds in January.
Having lost three games on the spin, Leeds find themselves sitting in 16th place – only five points off the relegation zone.
While January transfers have almost become imperative given their injury concerns, it may not be as straightforward as it seems.
Explaining this situation, Dr Dan, the Sheffield Hallam University expert, said, “Leeds need to stay in the Premier League for that deal to happen at that price.
“The valuation and attraction of Leeds are obviously linked to their Premier League status.
“Relegation means you’re taking another £60million off the revenue overnight.
“It is a balancing act in January. How much will the board be willing to risk in the window?
“If the net loss is £60million then where are you willing to set your sights on how much you can spend in January?
“Leeds will have benefitted to the tune of £200-250million in the last two years through TV money alone.
“This is the gamble for them now and let’s see if they stick or twist and sticking could mean believing in what you’ve got until the end of the season.“
Leeds United have been linked with a host of central midfielders, but currently, no frontrunner has emerged.
Their league form has been wretched of late, and they could be relieved that their Boxing Day fixture against Liverpool has now been postponed.
In other Leeds United news, the club have made an enquiry to sign a ‘Magnificent’ South American midfielder in January