He was set to move when the transfer window opens on Thursday, thinking cash-strapped Leeds would like to get £60k-a-week Viduka off their payroll.
However, Elland Road chief executive Trevor Birch is adamant Viduka will not be leaving in any cut-price deal. He does not see any long-term gain in allowing him to spend the rest of the season at a Premiership rival.
The Aussie's goals saved Leeds from relegation last season and Birch knows he is again the key this season.
Birch is in talks with three interested parties to try and find a buyer to save the club from going into administration, and he knows selling a prized asset while the discussions are still going on will have repercussions.