Bates denies bid for Leeds

Ken Bates today dismissed reports that he is planning a dramatic return to football by backing a takeover bid for Leeds United.

But the former Chelsea chairman, who stepped down 10 months ago, is said to have met Sebastien Sainsbury, the businessman behind a £25million move for the Yorkshire club, at the Dorchester Hotel last week.

Despite his denials, sources close to Sainsbury insist Bates is interested in putting £10m into the club in return for a majority shareholding and the chairmanship. In typically robust fashion Bates denied any link with Sainsbury and Leeds today.

Speaking from his new base in the south of France, he said: "This is absolute rubbish. I know nothing about it. The only thing keeping me busy is unpacking my shopping from the supermarket."

Sainsbury's consortium has been involved in lengthy talks regarding a proposed £25m takeover at Elland Road.

But the deal has hit a roadblock. Bates, who secured £17m when he sold Chelsea to Roman Abramovich in July 2003, could now provide the financial backing for Sainsbury to finalise a deal. Sainsbury is due to meet Leeds chairman Gerald Krasner tomorrow for further talks.