Leeds United

Massimo Cellino appeal concludes, no decision on Leeds United takeover yet

By Pascal Lemesre, Football League Editor | 31 March 2014

Massimo Cellino's appeal hearing in London against the Football League's decision to block his proposed takeover finishes, with no outcome yet revealed by the presiding QC.

Massimo Cellino's appeal hearing in London against the Football League's decision to block his proposed takeover has finished, with no outcome yet revealed by the presiding QC.

Last Monday it was announced that 57-year-old Cellino had failed with his 75% purchase of the Yorkshire club because of a recent tax evasion charge in his homeland of Italy.

After initially saying that he might not bother appealing, Cellino's UK lawyers confirmed on Thursday that he would challenge the League's ruling.

The hearing took place today and has now concluded, but the independent QC has yet to reveal his verdict.

"Massimo Cellino's appeal under The Football League's Owners' and Directors' Test has now concluded with the independent QC reserving his judgment," said a Football League spokesperson this afternoon.

Cellino has bankrolled Leeds since agreeing to buy a majority of the club and fans fear that the club could plunge into administration if a new owner is not found because of the money owed to the Italian, with current owners GFH Capital seemingly unable to fund player wages.