Post by Taxigirl on Dec 3, 2003 10:11:49 GMT
;DThe Bahraini Sheikh interested in buying Leeds United has told BBC Sport that the club's "crown jewels" will not be sold if he takes over.
Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Mubarak Al-Khalifa, a lifelong Leeds supporter, is desperate to save the club from relegation and administration.
"Alan Smith and all the jewels of the club will not be sold off - they are the heart of Leeds United," said Sheikh Abdulrahman.
"I am still hurting over the sale of Jonathan Woodgate."
The Sheikh confirmed to the Stock Exchange on Tuesday he is exploring a number of options with regards to a possible bid for Leeds United.
And a representative of Sheikh Abdulrahman revealed that law firm Linklaters and corporate brokers Brewin Dolphin are already involved.
The Sheikh is understood to feel that the club needs investment in new players to help the team with their battle against relegation.
And he gave assurances that if he is successful in taking over at the club, he will make money available for strengthening in the transfer market.
The Sheikh has been a Leeds fans for the last 25 to 30 years. He attended a recent Premiership match and has watched the team at numerous venues, including Grimsby Town's Blundell Park.
The Sheikh claims an in-depth knowledge of the club and when asked by this website was immediately able to answer that the club's first-choice left-back is Ian Harte. ;D
Leeds are currently bottom of the Premiership and about £78m in debt.
Several of the club's best players have been sold in an effort to raise funds, but despite players such as Woodgate and Harry Kewell leaving Elland Road, Leeds remain in a perilous financial position.
Shares in Leeds United were 22% higher at 4.875 pence in early trading on Wednesday.