Massimo Cellino’s time at Leeds United could be coming to an end, according to claims in Italy. The Italian businessman has been linked with Brescia in recent weeks, but it’s been widely expected he would keep his 50% stake in Leeds United.
Brescia Oggi have claimed Cellino is close to returning to Italy after a three year absence from his home country. It’s been claimed the Leeds United chief will sell his remaining shares to Andrea Radrizzani in the summer with the price based on how the club fares this season.
If Leeds United gain promotion to the Premier League Radrizzani must pay a premium price to buy out Cellino, but the figure will be less if they fail to get into the top flight. The outline terms of this have been agreed, claims the report, and the only question mark is Radrizzani having to pay a Premier League premium or not.
As it stands Brescia Oggi believe Cellino’s likeliest destination will be Brescia, with recent reports the Leeds United chief is in talks to purchase the Serie B side. Over the years Cellino has spoken of his fondness for the city and football club, so it would make sense for him to buy into the Italian side.
Brescia are now a debt free club after financial difficulties in recent years, and they were the subject of a takeover attempt last summer. There’s still the possibility Cellino may not buy back into Italian club, but Brescia Oggi seem adamant his days at Leeds United are coming to an end.
Whereas a lot of the reports in Italy have been that Cellino will attempt to buy Brescia and may leave Leeds United, this one differs in that it’s explained Cellino will sell up in England and may try to buy Brescia.
The former Cagliari president has had difficulties since purchasing Leeds United in 2014, and has been hit with two FA bans since then. Cellino has also come in for flak from the Elland Road faithful, who have been unhappy about the way he’s run the club.
