Krasner tells Spurs target Milner he is future of Leeds

Leeds chairman Gerald Krasner has reiterated that James Milner is the future of the club - despite rumours linking him with a move to Spurs.

Krasner, managing director David Richmond and director Peter Lorimer have all made it clear in recent weeks that Milner is not for sale.

The 18-year-old has also stated his desire to remain at Elland Road despite the club's relegation to the Football League which was confirmed with last Saturday's 3-3 home draw with Charlton.

But Tottenham, after agreeing to sign England international goalkeeper Paul Robinson for a cut-price fee believed to be £1.5m, are understood to be ready to test Leeds' resolve with regard to Milner.

Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy failed in a double swoop for Robinson and England Under-21 international winger Milner at the end of the January transfer window.

But after finally landing Robinson, Milner may yet join him at White Hart Lane if the Leeds' board bow to the pressure of their debts, in particular the £15m loan they required off Aston Villa shareholder Jack Petchey to help them purchase the club in March.

Krasner stated he would only allow Milner to leave for "silly money'' yet if Spurs' bid holds true then a figure of £5m would seem to represent nothing more than market value for one of the game's rising stars.

But with centre-back Matthew Kilgallon signing a new two-year contract on Wednesday, Krasner underlined the value of both he and Milner to Leeds' hopes of an instant promotion bid next season.

"They both have bright careers ahead of them,'' insisted Krasner.

"Players like Matthew and Jamie can lead us into the future and we have made it clear from day one that they are the kind of players we need to hold onto.''