Fans launch Elland Road bid

Leeds supporters intend to raise £10m in an audacious bid to buy Elland Road.

The proposals were prompted by fears the ground could fall into the wrong hands under plans by the Leeds board.

The scheme would see Elland Road held by a limited liability partnership, with the fans as owners and the football club as occupiers paying rent.

"What better landlord to have than loyal Leeds United supporters?" said Leeds United Supporters Trust spokesman John Boocock.

"This would protect the club, supporters and the local community from any speculation as to the future use of the ground as well as raise much-needed cash for the new owners to meet their current commitments.

There is not one idea I am not prepared to consider, but we will make the appropriate decisions when we have to Leeds chairman Gerald Krasner

"It would also give supporters a chance to invest in their club's long-term future in a positive way.

"They would also control their investment through membership of the Supporters' Trust which is democratic, transparent and independently regulated."

Despite a £22m takeover less than a fortnight ago, chairman Gerald Krasner and his fellow directors still need funds to pay off existing debts.

This is in addition to the £15m loan provided by Aston Villa shareholder and former Watford chairman Jack Petchey.

The Trust hope to speak soon with Krasner soon, and although he claims their offer falls short of the true valuation.

"It's in the books at £20m," stated Krasner.

"But if somebody has a serious proposal and can put a cheque in my hand, then I would be foolish not to consider it.

"There is not one idea I am not prepared to consider, but we will make the appropriate decisions when we have to."

Meanwhile, on-loan Leeds winger Lamine Sakho will learn on Wednesday the extent of the knee problem picked up in a reserve match against Liverpool on Tuesday.

Sakho may have suffered cruciate ligament damage following a collision with Liverpool goalkeeper Patrice Luzi.

The Senegal international will undergo a scan, but it is already thought that the injury will keep the 26-year-old out for the rest of the season.

Sakho is coming towards the end of a season-long loan deal from Marseille.