By admin 
According to the Daily Mail, the 49ers have already begun work at Leeds United on the development of Elland Road, which is expected to cost £200 million.
The Whites’ home ground, which was the subject of controversy in the final days of Andrea Radrizzani’s reign when he allegedly tried to use it as security against a loan for his purchase of Sampdoria [The Athletic, 1 June], has been a key part of the new regime’s long-term goals for the club, and consultants have apparently begun work on realizing them.
“Plans are being drawn up to increase capacity to 55,000 with a raft of new corporate hospitality offerings in revamped east and north stands,” writes Mike Keegan in his Mail report Tuesday (25 July). The Spurs will close the gap.
“Much-needed redevelopment, which was effectively stalled under Radrizzani, is suddenly picking up steam.” Planning consultants have begun their work. Designs have been created. The costs are anticipated to be £200 million. The funds are available, as is the knowledge.
“In 2014, the 49ers relocated from the iconic but dilapidated Candlestick Park to the new cutting-edge Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Silicon Valley.”
“It can be revealed that the man who worked on the funding for that £1 billion move is already working on Elland Road.” A firm that oversaw Levi’s development has now shifted its focus from the West Coast to West Yorkshire.”
Ambitious
Investment in the stadium, if done right, is arguably even more effective over the long-term than investment in the squad.
It may not be viable to hope to match Spurs’ revenue, given they are in London and would have a larger capacity either way, but closing the gap would clearly be beneficial for the club.
And if it allows more Leeds United fans in the ground to watch the team play every other week then it is immediately beneficial for the fanbase, although what it might mean for ticket prices is yet to become clear and will be a factor.
While the 49ers are reportedly at pains not to lose what makes Elland Road intimidating for visiting teams, development of the ground should improve the experience for fans, and increased revenue, in theory, should translate into greater ability to invest in the transfer market.
Clearly, this is a long-term strategy that is unlikely to benefit Daniel Farke’s current window, which is swiftly approaching its end with departures still massively outnumbering signings.
However, it is not uncommon for new owners to make big promises and then quickly backtrack once they have their foot under the table.
While there are legitimate concerns regarding the squad’s current composition, Marathe and company look to be making the right noises and backing up their words thus far.
In other Leeds United news, Farke is now certain to sign a player he has described as a “top, top player” following recent events.