Leeds open to new approaches

Leeds have confirmed an exclusivity period granted to a potential investor has ended

Leeds United have confirmed that the exclusivity period granted to a potential investor has ended but they remain happy to continue talks with possible new partners.

The Leeds United Supporters Trust announced earlier on Thursday that the proposed deal to buy the club had collapsed, following recent negotiations between a Gulf-based consortium and club chairman Ken Bates.

Leeds have now responded with a statement to clarify the situation as the search for new investment or a new owner continues.

The statement read: "Leeds United announces that the exclusivity period granted to a potential investor as mentioned in the statement of 26 June has ended.

"The club remain happy to continue discussions, but not on an exclusive basis, so as not to prevent other options passing.

Legacy

"The first priority must be to ensure that the credibility of any future investor or ultimate owner is such, that the Leeds legacy and its future is in safe hands, back in the Premiership.

"The club will continue to be receptive to approaches from potential new partners who can establish that they have the necessary credentials.

"Meanwhile, it is encouraging that there is a new spirit at the club under the management of Neil Warnock and his ten new signings."

Leeds first confirmed they were in talks with an unnamed group of potential

investors on May 29th and said in a statement they welcomed potential investment.

The club then announced on June 26th they had granted an exclusivity period to enable a potential investor to carry out the appropriate due diligence and that they "anticipated this will be a fairly straightforward process".

Since that time LUST have twice issued public pleas for information on behalf of the club's supporters - but nothing had been forthcoming until Thursday's announcement that the deal had collapsed.