The San Francisco 49ers have increased their ownership stake in Leeds United from 15 percent to 37 percent.

Paraag Marathe, the 49ers executive who has held a seat on the Leeds United board since San Francisco’s initial investment in 2018, will become vice chairman of Leeds.

The 49ers’ new commitment to English soccer underlines the growing synergy and potential for growth that the owners of N.F.L. franchises see in English soccer.

Leeds is back in the Premier League after a 16-year absence.