Member Article

Leeds United ex-MD David Haigh off the hook for spy cameras as Cellino denies club sale

Leeds United’s struggles continue, as police say that ex-MD David Haigh is off the hook for allegedly using club money to pay for spy cameras, whilst current owner Massimo Cellino denies accusations that he is ready to sell the club to energy drinks giant Red Bull.

The Yorkshire Evening Post reported that Haigh, who is currently being held in Dubai over allegations of defrauding LUFC’s previous owners Gulf Finance House, was being interviewed by police earlier this year concerning the misuse of club funds, to spy on the club from various locations including the boardroom.

He maintained the purchase of surveillance devices were a legitimate expenditure following reports of the use of Class A drugs in the boardroom washroom facilities.

Matthew Claughton, managing director of Olliers Solicitors, representing Mr Haigh, said: “Whilst the police have a duty to investigate all complaints at no stage did we expect this matter to lead to a prosecution.

“The conclusion of this episode leaves David free to concentrate on his dispute with GFH in Dubai.”

Haigh has begun proceedings of his own against GFH for alleged deceit.

Meanwhile current owner Cellino is facing his own storm as rumours surface that he is intending to give up his majority stake in the club after news emerged of meetings with Formula One giant Red Bull, who already own 3 other football clubs.

Cellino denied the rumours, saying: “I’m not selling Leeds United. These stories are 100% not true.

“I don’t know where they came from but they’re disrespectful to me and the supporters. They’re disrespectful to the work I’m doing here. It just causes trouble.

“We talked with an agent who said he was working for Red Bull but I’d never met him before and I don’t know what Red Bull want to do. I’m not selling the club.

“When I owned Cagliari, I decided to sell and I told everyone that I was selling. If it was the same here, I’d say. But I didn’t come to Leeds and use my money to leave after six months. You must be joking.”

Cellino claims to have spent more than £35 million since agreeing to buy a 75% stake in Leeds from Gulf Finance House (GFH) at the start of April.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Clare Burnett .