York City have laughed off suggestions England Under-20s keeper Russ Howarth is set to join Leeds United for £500,000.

Howarth, who only made his first League start of the season on Saturday, had been linked with a big summer move to Elland Road in reports over the weekend.

However, City assistant-manager Adie Shaw claimed the Premiership giants had not been in contact with the club.

"We've heard nothing," said Shaw. "With Russ being in the Under-20s there is always going to be clubs interested, but we've not had anything through."

Although there has not been an approach by Leeds, it is still possible for Howarth, who spent time with both Sunderland and Wolves during the season, to leave the club in the summer.

Howarth's contract is due to run out and York already have fellow net-minders Alan Fettis and John Collinson tied up on contracts.

But should the impressive 20-year-old, who has the offer of a new deal on the table, opt to move on under the Bosman ruling, City would receive a fee as he is under-23.

"Russ is very ambitious and has done really well," said Shaw. "He has been very patient all season and took his chance well on Saturday with some great saves.

"He is in the Under-20s and is hoping to make it with the Under-21s in the summer.

"It would be unfair of York City to stand in his way should a chance to further his career come along."

The dispute between City and Reading over the £50,000 the Minstermen believe is due to them as part of the 1999 transfer of Graeme Murty to the Royals has reached deadlock.

The Football League are now likely to step in and make a ruling on the matter.

Updated: 15:25 Tuesday, April 23, 2002