Leeds United: Brian McDermott may have to sell to buy

Leeds United manager Brian McDermott has admitted he may have to create his own transfer fund if he is to bring in more players before the new season.

On Thursday vice-chairman Salah Nooruddin said the board was supporting McDermott in the transfer market.

But asked whether a fund existed, McDermott told BBC Radio Leeds: "I'm not sure.

"We possibly have to wheel and deal to get targets in - there possibly has to be outgoings to get incomings."

He added: "I have my targets in place but it's basically day to day at this moment. I haven't lost any targets yet, but as time goes on it's not helpful."

The Whites have made only one close-season signing, that of Oldham forward Matt Smith, though former Reading striker and current free agent Noel Hunt is expected to join the club next week.

In a statement on the club website, Nooruddin said: "We are working on the targets that Brian has outlined and expect to see more progress in the coming weeks. I believe that we have to look for the long-term value rather than the quick fix in everything.

"We also have to be mindful that all our dealings fall within the Football League's new Financial Fair Play regulations, which limit the amount owners can invest in a club.

"We also have to make sure that the net effect of all our transfer dealings is to optimise the wage bill as we support the club in building long-term sustainable success.

"This means that, more than ever, success is something you have to build for and work towards. It's not an overnight thing."

United supporters concerned at the lack of transfer activity fear McDermott will be forced to sell prize assets such as full-back Sam Byram and striker Ross McCormack in order to rebuild his squad.

McDermott said: "We've had a couple of enquiries, but I'm not going to sell anybody I don't want to sell.

"The most important thing is we have a bunch of players who are never out-worked. I want us to pass the ball and play football the fans want to see, and that's what we're going to try to do.

"There's no point talking about frustrations, I have to do what I can for this football club.

"I think the board are committed behind me as an individual. They're working behind the scenes to try and get some investment - whether that's going to happen time will tell."