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Will Ferrell reportedly buys stake in Leeds United after 'falling in love with football'

The actor is best known for roles in Elf and Anchorman (Getty Images)
The actor is best known for roles in Elf and Anchorman (Getty Images)

Will Ferrell has bought a large stake in Leeds United after “falling in love with English football,” according to reports.

The actor, who once played a football coach in 2005 film Kicking and Screaming, is said to have invested as the Yorkshire team pushes for promotion to the Premier League.

Leeds finished third in the Championship and will now enter the play-offs to try and get back to the top flight, with the support of Ferrell who is said to be a big fan.

The Whites are currently owned by 49ers Enterprises, a worldwide commercial arm of the The San Francisco 49ers American football team.

“It’s true - Will Ferrell owns a share of Leeds,” a source told The Sun on Sunday.

“The 49ers will be announcing his involvement in the coming days and he’s looking forward to sprinkling a little stardust on the club.

“He loves soccer and has been particularly impressed by the passion of the English game.

“And his aim now is to see Leeds back where they belong — in the Premier League. As far as Will and the 49ers are concerned, this is a serious investment opportunity.”

The Sun did not state how much Ferrell had invested and what percentage he may now own.

Ferrell has previously been seen watching Manchester City play Aston Villa at the Etihad and joined Ryan Reynolds to watch Wrexham.

Will Ferrell poses with then Chelsea player John Terry in 2009 ((GABRIEL BOUYS/AFP/Getty Images))
Will Ferrell poses with then Chelsea player John Terry in 2009 ((GABRIEL BOUYS/AFP/Getty Images))

The fact that fellow actors Reynolds and Rob McElhenney’s investment in the Welsh club preceded their rapid rise up from Non League to League One may have attracted Ferrell.

The actor has not confirmed the investment on his social media and could not be reached by the reporter for the comment.

Leeds United and 49ers Entertainment have also not commented on the Sun’s story.