Exclusivity period for Derby takeover extended

Derby County's administrators Quantuma have extended the exclusivity period for Chris Kirchner's until midnight on Saturday, 14 May.

Kirchner, whose initial period of exclusivity expired at the weekend, is still keen to buy the club, which has been in administration since September.

American businessman Kirchner remains Quantuma's preferred bidder.

But they are "conscious of heightening anxiety and levels of interest" following reports of other bidders.

The fact that Derby's Pride Park is still owned by former owner Mel Morris has been a sticking point, with Derby City Council also working on a deal to buy the ground to help bring the Rams out of administration.

Quantuma said most of the outstanding issues delaying the takeover had now been worked through with Kirchner and that they believed than an agreement over the stadium was close.

"We consider that matters can be resolved in a short period of time and are grateful for the assistance of all stakeholders relating to the stadium," a statement from Quantuma said.

"It should be noted that the company that owns the stadium is not in administration and therefore out of our control. We have therefore extended the period of exclusivity to midnight on Saturday, 14 May."

The statement added: "For the avoidance of doubt, Mr Morris has been fully co-operative throughout the administration and has not changed his stance on the disposal of the stadium.

"He shares everyone's desire that the successful acquirer will take the club forward and understands that the acquirer will want the stadium matter resolved as soon as possible."