Apparently GFH Capital's takeover of Leeds United is "nearly complete" so say the Bahrain-based bank's top brass and Ken Bates himself.

However with the saga having rumbled on for five months now, Leeds fans will cautiously welcome today's statement.

Bates said on lufc.com "It's been a long road, but we are in a good place.

“Both sides have been in talks over the last few days to finalise this deal. We are keeping focused and hope to complete very soon.”

Speculators alleged that like many, Bates had got cold feet over whether or not GFH had the money to complete the deal, however he has since been assured the funds are in place.

Another obstacle rumoured to be a sticking point was any deal had to be compatible with Shariah Law. Elland Road does have facilities which sell alcohol, pork products and provides gambling facilities - all strictly forbidden under Shariah code. However GFH's Saleem Patel, the chief investments officer announced today that this was not an issue.

Mr Patel said "We understand there is some concern related to how Leeds United would be run under our stewardship.

"It remains important to be clear that Shari'ah law will not hinder this transaction nor will it affect the future operations of the club.

"Our intention is to provide investment which will facilitate a successful and sustainable future for Leeds United on and off the pitch."

But GFH's CEO David Haigh, himself a lifelong Leeds fan did err on the side of caution when he said "With the money in place we are poised to make this deal happen, pending agreements and arrangements which are in the interests of the future of Leeds United - we need to make sure all the finer detail is addressed before trading signatures,"

Hopefully with Papa Smurf's day's numbered at Elland Road, he will put aside his carefully planned "tax exiles diary" and make it over for tomorrow's clash with Birmingham City, armed with one of the many "Pens for Ken" in his hand, baited and ready to sign the club over at long-last to somebody who can take us forward.

Photo: Action Images via Reuters