Russell Crowe: Leeds United 'not for sale' says chairman

Crowe travelled to England to watch South Sydney in action

Leeds United are "not for sale" despite actor Russell Crowe suggesting he may be interested in buying the club.

BBC Sport had learned that New Zealand-born Crowe, a Leeds supporter, would consider buying the club only if approached and with the fans' backing.

Leeds are owned by Eleonora Sport Limited but banned president Massimo Cellino has sold his personal stake in both the company and the club.

Chairman Andrew Umbers said there have been no approaches.

"The club is not for sale nor do the Cellino family wish to sell and nor have we received any approaches contrary to reports in the press today," said Umbers.

"The ongoing legal discussions between Massimo Cellino and the Football League are being completely misinterpreted.

"Leeds United is currently being successfully restructured, rebuilt, significantly invested in, with care and planning for the longer term with the Cellino family at its heart, for the benefit of its long-suffering and passionate fans, the city and its players and staff."

Oscar-winning Crowe, 50, had asked his 1.67m Twitter followers whether it would be a good idea to buy the Championship club.

He is already the co-owner of rugby league club South Sydney Rabbitohs, who play in Australia's National Rugby League.