By Rich Baggott
May 2 2007

Just days after Leeds United were effectively relegated to Division 1, the rumour mill has begun. Here we take a look at some of the stories doing the rounds in the media and on Messageboards accross the Internet. Feel free to discuss anything YOU hear ion the message board. The first story to break at 7am on Monday was news of a crisis meeting at Elland Road about the club potentially going into Administration. This COULD mean one of two things. Firstly, administration in the normal sense where a company could no longer 'pay the bills' and an Adminstrator be appointed to take control of the club and evaluate the options for the interests of the creditors. The second option, and probably the more likely would be for the club to go into Administration as part of a planned approach that would bring about a take over and clear some if not all the debts. Leeds United have yet to comment formally on the 'administration' rumour but whether that adds a degree of fuel to the fire or is simply a case of Bates stubbornley refuse to comment on what he might be classing ' absurd rumours' is open to debate. The speculation was increased when former Chairman, Gerald Krasner phoned a local Radio station discussing the plight of the club and stated he was "90% sure" administration was calling. It has been confirmed that if Leeds were to enter administration, the FA would dock 10 points from THIS seasons tally providing this occured before the end of the Deby game on Sunday, meaning leeds would not only be relegated as is currently inevitable, they would finish bottom of the Championship. Further rumours of plans for Leeds United to move from Elland Road have surficed with the Daily Mail actually featuring a story stating that Leeds had approached the city council to play at the home of Hunslet Rugby League Club, South Leeds Stadium. Bates has been quick though to publicly state this is not the case and has indeed started legal proceeedings against the Daily Mail who refused to retract the story. South Leeds Stadium holds approximately 2500 and the thought of Leeds United moving there does border on the absurd. Grounds, property and development are on most fans lips at present with the news, also from Krasner that the land around Elland Road was valued at £58m for development - this led to further specualtion, mainly on Internet message boards that Bates could be looking to cash in on this for his own financial benefit rather than for the good of the club - an allegation without foundation as things stand. Rumours are also around that Leeds is planning to move to Headingley, home of the Leeds Rhino's and currently under ground redevelopement. The only word from the club is a statement by Bates that confirms he is looking to develop the land adjacent to Elland Road as has always been well known, but that Leeds United will not be moving whilst he is in charge. There is still a major question mark of over ownership of Elland Road. When Gerald Krasner was at the helm, he sold Elland Road and Thorpe Arch Training Academy to a property developer with both a buy-back clause and a 999 year lease agreement securely in place. In the past 12-18 months, ownership of the ground has passed to an offshore company known only as TEAK Trading company - speculation remains that this is actually a front for Bates himself although these rumours have always been strongly denied. Finally, rumours of potential take-overs and new names are being linked with a possible buy-out (or investement) of the Yorkshire club but as yet, no-one is 'showing Leeds the money' - American Billionaire, Paul Allen is one exciting name to apepar. The co-founder of Microsoft is the fith richest man in the United States and has recently been linked with a takeover of Southampton. In addition there is a strong rumour that an Irish consortium is gathering, and wants to use Leeds favourities, Gary Kelly and Lucas Radeabe to front the bid. Former Sheffield United Chairman, Mike McDonald has played down reports that he is considering buying LUFC although has spoken publicly that he would be interested to join a consortium as an investment opportunity. Finally, Rawdon born Millionaire Dominic Morraco has spoken of his desire to see Leeds United bag amongst the elite. The owner of 186K is reputed to be worth £50m however how much credance can be given to his interest is open to speculation. He featured on the front page of local paper, the Yorkshire Evening Post and may have already acheived what he set out to do! The rumour mill is set to continue....