EFL demands to have stronger influence on Derby County takeover

Chris Kirchner recently failed with a takeover bid

The English Football League have demanded to become more involved with the ongoing takeover of Derby County in order to secure their future in the footballing pyramid. American businessman Chris Kirchner failed to meet Friday's deadline to buy the club, with the conditions that initially prevented the Rams' explosion from the league now changing. The EFL have now insisted that they become involved and have requested to be informed of all discussions between administrators Quantama and any prospective bidders. A statement from the league on Sunday expressed its 'deep concerns' and that the delays are presenting a "a real risk to the integrity of next season's competition" given that the fixtures are released in less than two weeks. Chief executive Trevor Birch said: "Following this latest setback for the Club and its fans, it is vitally important that a sale of the Club is concluded at the earliest opportunity and we want to ensure that this objective is achieved. "Up until now we have provided the Administrators with the time and opportunity to manage the sale process but with the long stop date on the asset purchase agreement and the membership agreement now passed, further urgent proactive action is required in order to do whatever is possible to secure the Club's future as a continuing member of the EFL" https://twitter.com/EFL_Comms/status/1535955284102881283 Mike Ashley has been linked with launching a takeover bid for the club and could well make a formal offer in order to help save the Rams. Derby have been in administration since September 2021, and currently just five first-team players to their name as they prepare for life in the third tier of English football. Wayne Rooney is unable to sign players at present, nor offer new contracts to those who's deals have expired. Related links:

• Derby County relegated from the Championship
• Mike Ashley considering bid for Derby County
• Defiant Wayne Rooney addresses Derby fans at training ground after relegation