Chinese investors show "definite interest" in Leeds United takeover

A Chinese consortium is reportedly eyeing up a potential takeover of Leeds United, which could potentially be worth more than £100m.

Steve Tappin, Yorkshire-born businessman who is the chief executive and founder of Chinese consultancy company Xinfu, has reportedly been holding talks this week with investors in Beijing as there is “huge potential for Chinese investors.”

Chinese media outlet China Daily has reported that Tappins said: “I have had a series of meetings with related parties all this week, and there is definite interest in buying Leeds, but I want to ensure it would be with long-term investment, significant working capital and the right governance so it can be a stable platform for sustainable Premier League success.

“Leeds United is a big club. They have a very strong fan base and huge potential for investors, particularly if it can be returned to the Premiership.”

Italian businessman Massimo Cellino currently has a majority ownership stake in Leeds United, whilst Middle Eastern group GFH Capital remains a minority stake holder.

Since taking over Leeds in April 2014, Cellino has dismissed a total of six managers and received several suspensions by the Football League for off-pitch incidences.

Cellino previously expressed interest in selling Leedslast year following a 2-0 home defeat to blackburn Rovers. At the time he called his tenure at the Championship club a “nightmare” and described feeling “shame” everytime Leeds loses a game.

Leeds United last saw Premier league action over a decade ago in 2004.

Tappin also told China Daily: “There is huge potential for Chinese investors. Leeds is a sleeping giant. The brand valuations of Manchester United, Manchester City and Barcelona run into billions of dollars and not long ago Leeds used to be up among them.”

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