Fans Plans To Bid For Ground

Last updated : 31 March 2004 By Kevin Markey

"The club need to raise cash in order to pay the club's outstanding tax bills and those who financed the rescue of the club," said Leeds United Supporters Trust spokesman John Boocock, who is involved.

"One way to raise cash would be by a limited liability partnership. Given goodwill on the part of both supporters and the club's owners there is a realistic prospect of fans taking this forward. What better landlord to have than loyal Leeds United supporters?

"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.

"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."

The Trust are hoping to speak to Gerald Krasner, and although he says it is an idea he would consider, he has stated their offer falls short of the true valuation.

"It's in the books at £20m," said 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."

Krasner has also spoken to several potential investors after a fan at last Thursday's Leeds Supporters' Forum said he knew of some people willing to assist the new board.

There has been no proposals yet according to Krasner, who added: "I have had some phone calls, but nobody has put any money on the table."