Leeds United have failed with a £150,000 bid for Southampton defender Darren Powell.

The 30-year-old centre-back has been targeted by Dennis Wise as a potential signing during the January transfer window, but United's interest has been firmly repelled by Southampton boss George Burley.

Powell is central to Burley's plans at St Mary's despite the posterior ligament injury he sustained in April and which has prevented him from making a single first-team appearance this season.

The former Crystal Palace and Brentford defender made his comeback with Southampton's reserves earlier this month, but he is back on the sidelines after suffering a minor thigh strain in training.

Burley, however, is unwilling to consider releasing a fully-fit Powell from his squad.

Burley said: "Leeds spoke to me about Darren and I told them I did not want to sell him. That's the end of the matter."