Bates set for Leeds

KEN BATES could make a sensational return to football within the next 24 hours as Leeds’ potential saviour, although a three-way race has ensued to take over the cash-strapped club.

Leeds have been in negotiations with the former Chelsea chairman for the last few days, and such has been the rapid progress made, Bates could be in situ by the end of today.

However, the United board also remain in discussions with the consortium led by Leeds-based property developer Norman Stubbs and a third group chairman Gerald Krasner held constructive talks with in London earlier this week.

Bates was recently linked with Sebastien Sainsbury’s failed £25million takeover bid, only to deny any involvement.

But Bates has since made his own approach, and with other investors by his side, he has come from nowhere to move into pole position.

Leeds spokesman Bryan Morris said: “We are still talking to all consortiums and Mr Bates is one of those.

Bates has made it known, since parting from Chelsea with a £17million pay-off, that he is eager to return to football, with money burning a hole in his pocket.

Bates long courted Sheffield Wednesday, only to find his money was not welcome by chairman Dave Allen and the rest of the Owls board, despite debts of over £25million.

But with Leeds still heavily in debt to the tune of £25million themselves, and with the current board desperate to find a buyer or secure investment with administration looming, they cannot afford to be choosy.