Leeds United look set to lose the battle to hold on to manager George Graham, who could be in the Tottenham hot-seat by the middle of next week. The air of resignation hanging over Elland Road indicates that the man who has guided the club back into the top six is almost certain to depart, possibly after United's UEFA Cup second leg clash with Maritimo in Portugal on Tuesday.

Although unwilling to say so publicly, the Leeds board have been surprised that Tottenham chairman Alan Sugar has not followed up his initial offer for Graham, which was dismissed out of hand at the weekend.

Graham missed training at Leeds on Monday - he was believed to be spending the day at his flat in Hampstead - which fuelled rumours he was about to return to north London, where he enjoyed so much success with Arsenal.

It is thought they have already discussed who would replace Graham, with two names standing out on a provisional list of five or six.

The clamour from Leeds fans would undoubtedly be for present Coventry manager Gordon Strachan, who skippered the Yorkshire club to their last League Championship success in 1992.

Graham's assistant David O'Leary will also be near the top of any hit-list.