And the Elland Road chairman says the transfer embargo imposed on the club after it went into administration will not hinder their hopes next season.

"I don't discuss figures, and never have, but Dennis will have funds available to him," said Bates.

"We're in limbo slightly but that does not stop us talking to players formally and agreeing deals in principle."

The Football League has confirmed that the embargo it imposed following the move into administration on 4 May is unlikely to be lifted until July.

That delay will leave Wise with a month to rebuild his relegated squad ahead of the start of the campaign on 11 August.

"We've already held lots of informal discussions, and Dennis has got a long shopping list," Bates added.

"We actually sent him away on holiday while all this was going on because there was nothing more he could do. But he knows who he wants.

"Obviously we've had a few setbacks and missed out on a few players, but that's inevitable regardless of whether you're in administration or not.

"It happens every year and you never get every player you try for."