A report by Alan Biggs in the Sunday People says Kevin Blackwell has battled to save Elland Road's academy from a round of severe cash cutbacks.
And Blackwell insists he can deliver a multi-million pound spin-off after 9 Leeds youngsters were called up for England U-16 duty this month.
"We had five in the full squad and four on standby, which must be the first time for ages since there were so many from one club," Blackwell said.
He is convinced Leeds will shortly command the sort of windfall that followed the sales of stars including Jonathan Woodgate, Paul Robinson, James Milner and Aaron Lennon.
"Leeds has a good record for developing youngsters and it's important we keep that going."