The Most Ridiculous Football Rumour Award is always a hotly contested and much-sought after accolade in the world of journalism. Much like a war correspondent hasn’t truly “made it” until he’s been in the line of fire, or a 3am girl can’t say “I’ve lived” until she’s slept with Russell Brand, the MRFR Award is what truly separates the chaff from the wheat.

Previous rumours that have been nominated for this award include ‘Patrick Viera to Leeds United’ (circa 2010) and ‘Alan Smith to make shock return’ (2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010). As you can see, the level of competition is intense.

But this years winner scales heights that past nominees can barely imagine. In one clean swoop, this man has risen from merely a tagline on a website to football immortality.

Ladies and gentleman, I give you Mark Ham and his winning rumour… Leeds United and Fulham battling it out for experienced winger!

Leeds United are preparing to make a sensational swoop for former star and now free agent Harry Kewell.

It is understood that Fulham are also very interested in Kewell, often regarded as ‘Australia’s finest football export’, but may offer him a ‘pay as you play’ deal due to his susceptibility to injuries.

Kewell, now 32, could be interested in a move back to the Premier League if Fulham boss Martin Jol is prepared to make an offer for him.

However former club Leeds, where Kewell won the PFA Young Player of the Year award, will attempt to hijack Fulham’s move for the Australian and tempt him back to Elland Road.

Kewell has been the subject of a lot of transfer speculation already this summer with Premier League new boys QPR, and Australian A-League clubs Melbourne Heart, Sydney FC and Newcastle Jets all interested in Kewell’s signature.

However it looks like Fulham and Leeds are the two clubs who are most likely to sign Kewell, but he will have to make the choice between playing in the top flight of English football or returning to a club where he was once a fan favourite.