Cash-strapped Leeds refusing to sell players on the cheap

LEEDS are demanding a double-your-money offer from Tottenham for Paul Robinson and James Milner as the cash-strapped club refuse to let any of their stars leave on the cheap.

Acting-chairman and chief executive Trevor Birch last night rejected a £5 million bid from Spurs for the duo, despite the fact Leeds need that figure to see them through to the end of the season.

With Leeds' highest paid players refusing to accept a wage deferral rejecting an initial 35% cut and then a later offer of 30% it was expected Birch would be forced to sell to raise the necessary cash. Although Arsenal and Newcastle have been linked with a £5 million move for Alan Smith, Birch insisted yesterday the striker is not for sale.