MX23RW : Tuesday, November 26 03:33:26| >> :120:64156:64156:

Wigan Athletic still waiting for EFL decision on proposed takeover

Wigan Athletic still waiting for EFL decision on proposed takeover
© Reuters
During September, it was announced an agreement had been reached with a "preferred bidder from Spain"

Wigan administrators are still waiting on a decision from the English Football League over a proposed purchase of the Sky Bet League One club, with a November 11 deadline having been extended.

During September, it was announced an agreement had been reached with a “preferred bidder from Spain”, with a “substantial deposit” handed over.

The bid also includes a payment to non-football creditors, which would mean the Latics would therefore avoid a 15-point penalty in the ongoing campaign.

In an update statement on Wednesday, Begbies Traynor moved to reassure fans the talks would continue towards what the administrators hope will be “a satisfactory conclusion”.

“We have not as yet had a final decision from the EFL regarding the transfer of the Football Share,” read the statement on the club’s official website.

“Both the bidders and ourselves together with our legal team have had regular and ongoing discussions with the EFL regarding their requirements.

“Our exclusivity agreement with the bidders, which runs out on the 11th November, has been extended for a further period to try and ensure that we reach a satisfactory conclusion.

“At this stage we cannot say when that will be as matters rest with the EFL.

“Whilst we fully understand the fans frustration and the effect generally on the club we must adhere to the procedures set down if we are to be successful.”

An EFL spokesperson said: “The EFL has remained in regular dialogue with the administrators at Wigan Athletic in respect of the proposed takeover, which would see the club exit administration and new company AFC Wigan Athletic Limited established.

“Following the recent announcement by the Wigan Athletic Supporters’ Club, who felt they were unable to move forward with the proposed deal at this time and consideration of all relevant matters by the EFL board, the EFL Executive advised the administrators of a number of outstanding issues that required a resolution before this matter could progress.

“This situation is ongoing and whilst we are unable to provide a definitive timeline for its conclusion, the EFL remains committed to securing a long-term sustainable future for Wigan Athletic as soon as is practically possible and will continue to work proactively with the administrators to achieve this aim.”

Begbies Traynor also confirmed the sale of unused ‘Sharpy’s’ restaurant adjacent to the DW Stadium had now been completed.

Wigan’s on-field revival in the second half of last season under former boss Paul Cook lifted them clear of the bottom three in the Championship.

However, a 12-point deduction for entering administration in July led to relegation.

An initial deadline for a sale of August 31 was missed, but the club were given permission by the EFL to start their campaign in the third tier.

Wigan sit bottom of the table on goal difference, with seven points from 11 games, and John Sheridan’s side were knocked out of the FA Cup first round by National League North outfit Chorley.

ID:421921: cacheID:421921:1false2false3false:QQ:: from db desktop :LenBod:restore:4389:
Restore Data
Share this article now:
rhs 2.0
Today's games header
Tables header RHS
TeamPWDLFAGDPTS
1Wycombe WanderersWycombe15112235181735
2Wrexham1694325111431
3Stockport CountyStockport1786329171230
4Birmingham CityBirmingham1493226151130
5Huddersfield TownHuddersfield158252315826
6Barnsley167542420426
7Lincoln CityLincoln167542320326
8Reading158252422226
9Bolton WanderersBolton158252425-126
10Mansfield TownMansfield147342016424
11Exeter CityExeter157261413123
12Peterborough UnitedPeterborough166373229321
13Bristol Rovers166371721-421
14Charlton AthleticCharlton155461617-119
15Stevenage165471116-519
16Northampton TownNorthampton164661821-318
17Wigan AthleticWigan154561312117
18Rotherham UnitedRotherham164571419-517
19Blackpool164572230-817
20Crawley TownCrawley174491527-1216
21Leyton Orient154381418-415
22Cambridge UnitedCambridge153391324-1112
23Shrewsbury TownShrewsbury1632111629-1311
24Burton Albion151591528-138


Sports Mole provides in-depth previews and predictions for every match from the biggest leagues and competitions in world football.
Argentina's Lionel Messi kisses the World Cup trophy after collecting the Golden Ball award on December 18, 2022Sign up for our FREE daily preview newsletter direct to your inbox!