Leeds United buy back Elland Road

Leeds United have bought back their Elland Road home, 13 years after selling the stadium to reduce debts.

Leeds sold the ground on a lease back deal in November 2004 after relegation from the top flight.

Owner Andrea Radrizzani said: "Today is an important day in our history and a proud day for me and my team. When I met with management and supporters during my first few months here the purchase of Elland Road was very high on their list of priorities."

The club added in a statement that the deal would allow them to "significantly reduce their expenditure" and re-direct money to the academy, senior squad and improvements to the stadium.

Former owner Massimo Cellino said in 2014 that he wanted to "buy back our house" but he did not manage to do so before selling his remaining 50% stake to fellow Italian Radrizzani in May.

Managing director Angus Kinnear, who was unable to confirm the financial details of the deal, told BBC Radio Leeds: "I'm very excited. This is a fantastic day. I've been in the city for a couple of weeks but already it has been impressed on me by the people of Leeds how important it was to own our home."

He added "Andrea has only had full ownership for a few weeks and he has delivered on his promise. The transaction has not been easy but we are all delighted and there is a fantastic feeling around Elland Road. There is a fantastic opportunity for development and you can't do that if you don't own the ground. We want to look at how we can enhance supporters' experience on a matchday."

JC