The San Francisco 49ers Enterprises’ proposed takeover at Leeds United could be in jeopardy if the club are relegated to the Championship, according to The Guardian.

The Lowdown: Option until January

The 49ers have had a deal in place to take over from Andrea Radrizzani since the end of 2021, with time ticking for the agreement to be activated.

The American investors can take complete control in Yorkshire for a total price in excess of £400m, but they only have until next January to exercise that agreement.

The Latest: Worrying claim

The Guardian’s Louise Taylor shared a story in the last 48 hours, sharing what new manager Javi Gracia must find in order to revive the club.

She said that Leeds’ Premier League status could be crucial in regards to a takeover, with relegation to the Championship almost certainly placing a prospective takeover in jeopardy.

The Verdict: Not good

Reports earlier this month claimed that the 49ers ‘expect to be in control in Yorkshire for 10-15 years once they complete a full takeover of the club this summer’, adding that relegation would not stop a takeover as they are ‘pursuing a long-term capital appreciation model’.

Therefore, this claim from Taylor is a worrying one, as it seems as if a takeover may not be guaranteed irrespective of the league in which Leeds find themselves for 2023/24.

Gracia’s full focus will be on matters on the pitch, and his impact in the coming months could have a real impact in the boardroom in the long run, potentially starting this weekend against Southampton if he receives a work permit in time.