Sainsbury turns his back on Leeds

Sebastien Sainsbury will not be the saviour of crisis-hit Leeds after apparently terminating his interest in buying the struggling club.

Leeds issued a statement tonight which revealed Sainsbury has withdrawn having appeared on the brink of finalising his buy-out earlier this week.

The club said: “Leeds United’s board can confirm that at 4.15pm today Sebastien Sainsbury’s lawyers have informed Leeds United’s lawyers that they will no longer be bidding to take over the club.

“Negotiations with other interested parties are ongoing. Further information will be supplied if and when discussions come to a conclusion.”

Local property developer Norman Stubbs is believed to be single remaining party continuing talks with the current board.