Leeds reject Inter loan bid for Viduka

Leeds United revealed that they have turned down a loan bid from Inter Milan for Australian international striker Mark Viduka.

The Italian giants have made no secret of their admiration for Viduka, who was Leeds' leading scorer last season with 22 goals.

Inter decided to make their move following Hernan Crespo's transfer to Chelsea this week, but were turned down by Leeds chairman John McKenzie as the Italian club were only looking for a loan arrangement pending a permanent deal.

"Peter Reid (Leeds manager) did receive a ridiculous offer of a loan from Inter Milan, but I just turned it down," said McKenzie.

"I made it very clear I would only sell Mark if he wanted to go and it would also be at an exceptional price.

"We have made that clear to Inter Milan as well as anybody else who has made any sort of enquiry."

Viduka cost six million pounds from Scottish side Celtic in 2000 but agreed a new, five-year contract in 2001 which runs to 2006.