Nicola Cortese Plots Leeds Takeover From Massimo Cellino

Former EPL side Southampton Chair Nicola Cortese "is eyeing a takeover of Leeds United," according to Jonathan Northcroft of the SUNDAY TIMES. Cortese is considering an attempt to buy out Massimo Cellino, the "controversial Italian who presides at Elland Road." Cellino is thought to want about £40M ($60.2M) but informed observers believe that his 75% controlling stake is "worth significantly less than this" -- particularly given that Leeds does not own its stadium or training ground. Thursday Cellino withdrew an offer he had made last week to sell the club to fans -- "the latest piece" of contradictory behavior in his tenure. Cortese, a Swiss banker, has considered several invitations to run or purchase clubs since leaving Southampton 21 months ago but "resolved to return to football only if the opportunity was sufficiently exciting." He "believes Leeds might be." Cortese is known for a "hands-on, perfectionist approach to all facets of a football club's daily running" (SUNDAY TIMES, 11/8).