GOLD Coast United have pulled down the shutters on any possible sale of super striker Shane Smeltz and overruled coach Miron Bleiberg who hinted they may let him go.
After Smeltz struck four times in Gold Coast's 5-0 demolition job on fellow A-League new boys North Queensland Fury, Bleiberg admitted the club may not be able to hold onto Smeltz for much longer.
The club sold defensive rock Adam Griffiths to Saudi club Al-Shabab for $1.4 million last week after just one game - and Bleiberg expected massive offers to come in for Smeltz.
"Smeltzy is a great striker and unfortunately for us an offer will probably come some time," Bleiberg said after Saturday's match.
"We have an arrangement and when the right offer comes we will congratulate him, he is 27 and we will not hold him back.
"It is our job to produce good players and help them through their careers."
But today Gold Coast United owner Clive Palmer ruled out any sale at any price for Golden Boot winner Smeltz, or anyone else.
"None of our contracted players are leaving and no further transfers during the current season will be considered for any amount of money," said Palmer today
"Any offers we receive will be rejected out of hand. The final decision on the acquisition or transfer of any players rests with the Board of Directors at Gold Coast United.
"Neither Miron Bleiberg nor anyone else will influence that decision process."
CEO Clive Mensink echoed the views of the United Chairman, saying the club's aims were to maintain the high standard of its playing roster.
He added: "We are looking to build a team that is geared for success and add to the quality we already have, not diminish it."
Related Articles

Fresh talent flock to ambitious A-League outfit's pro pathway

Why A-League 20/21 is crucial for Olyroos’ medal hopes
