Leeds United chairman Ken Bates claims he turned down a £1.8million offer from Newcastle for striker Jermaine Beckford. Manager Simon Grayson is reportedly looking for sky-high offers in the region of £10million for the 26 year old and Bates has revealed he knocked back £1.8m from the Magpies.

The Whites' supremo admits the striker was keen on a move to St James' Park, although the club will have the final say on his future if he leaves before the summer.

"I have always said the Beckford decision was down to Simon Grayson," Bates told The Telegraph.

"We could have picked up a quick £1.8million cash from Newcastle for Beckford's transfer and Becks wanted to go.

"But Simon has always said he would do what was best for Leeds United and that means getting promotion, which is what we are doing.

"I am not particularly impressed with his (Beckford's) agent but as long as Jermaine stays on the pitch and scores goals I think all the fans will be happy and that is the important thing - the fans being happy in the short and long term."