Leeds United are in a “worrying” scenario after their latest accounts revealed the club’s financial problems – and a “disastrous” points deduction is becoming increasingly likely.
Speaking on the most recent episode of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, former Leeds and England goalkeeper Paul Robinson, who is well-connected at his former club, revealed the situation and admitted that promotion would provide the Whites with a “huge bonus” as they look to alleviate their financial concerns.
Despite reporting a record turnover of £189.7 million in 2022-23, the club lost £33.7 million after being relegated to the Championship.
On April 27, Football Insider disclosed that Leeds could face a points loss if they fail to repay the £190 million in transfer fees owed to other teams, with £73.6 million due by the end of June this year.
Leeds United might face a points deduction
Robinson is concerned that even if they get promoted to the Premier League, the Whites would find themselves in a similar situation to Sheffield United, who were obliged to sell several of their key players last summer to balance the books.
“You look at the revenue the Premier League brings, the television, the sponsorship, and everything else,” he said on the Inside Track podcast.
“Leeds United are a massive football club, both in terms of fan base and revenue, not only in this nation but around the world. They now outnumber many Premier League teams.
“There’s another question concerning the stadium. Elland Road has been in need of repairs for a long time. They are discussing whether or not to redevelop the site.
“But if the money isn’t there to generate revenue, look at Everton, who have a new stadium to try to improve themselves and boost revenue. It is difficult to do when you will be fined for it.
“The accounts are undoubtedly troubling, but I believe the Premier League would be a big plus for Leeds if that is the case.
“You just hope there is no expenditure that results in a points deduction, because getting into the Premier League is difficult enough.
“But starting off behind the black ball with a points deduction makes it difficult to stay in there. It appears that a point deduction is possible, which would be disastrous.
“Similarly to Sheffield United last season, if you believe what you read, if they did not make the Premier League, it would have been a financial disaster for them.
“They began the Premier League season weaker than they concluded the Championship with the group that they had since they had to sell players before entering the Premier League.
“The Premier League money has kept them going and their head above water.”
