Leeds United dragged into fresh Massimo Cellino allegations involving Andrea Radrizzani - Leeds Live 14/9/23
Massimo Cellino sold Leeds United to Andrea Radrizzani in 2017 and it seems the transaction is yet to be completed in his eyes
Italian ownership may be a thing of the past at Leeds
United, but that has not kept the club’s name out of a fresh feud brewing
between Massimo Cellino and Andrea Radrizzani. The former preceded the latter
at Elland Road and that 2017 transition of power has come under the microscope
in Italy this week.
Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport has carried an
interview with Cellino which holds Radrizzani to the fire somewhat. As
translated by Sport Witness, the problem seems to be Cellino’s claim his
successor has not paid off some elements of their Leeds takeover deal on time.
The report says: “At stake is an old loan to be repaid in
annual instalments. The 2023 one would not have been honoured in time, thus
leading Cellino and his lawyers to consider a sensational action: the seizure
of Sampdoria’s shares.”
Cellino is quoted as saying: “Even in the past there was no
punctuality, now the 2023 instalment expired on August 31. I made myself heard
and I get no answers. That money is needed for my Brescia.
“How can Radrizzani buy a prestigious club like Samp to
rehabilitate if he can’t even pay his old debts relating to Leeds? An
embarrassing thing.
“I have to protect myself and Brescia and, for this reason,
my lawyers are evaluating whether it is possible to take action against
Sampdoria’s shares, provided they are in his name.”
It is typically messy and it remains to be seen whether
Cellino has a leg to stand on this argument. Either way, United fans will be
pleased neither of the parties involved are in control of their club any
longer.
