July 27 2003

Julian Gray

Leeds United have pulled out of the race to sign Julian Gray, but Charlton are now favourites for his signature.

Leeds boss Peter Reid was left disappointed at his failure to agree a price with Palace for the 23 year old winger.

Gray impressed during his trial at Elland Road, and Gray described the potential deal as a 'dream move'. However after negotiations with Palace officials Leeds decided to go no further.

Reid said: "Unfortunately, we could not further the deal.

"I am not having a go at Palace, they had a valuation and so did we, but we could not do a deal.

"He is a smashing player and I wish I could have brought him in, but that was out of my hands and unfortunately we could not bring him in. But I will keep looking."

Gray is now having a trial at Charlton, and played a full ninety minutes in their 2-1 win against Peterborough on Saturday.