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Four prospective buyers for Bradford

2012-08-16 02:36:16

The RFL have revealed that there are four prospective buyers for the Bradford Bulls

Bulls: Deal close to a reality

One of the bids is from Super League Europe Ltd, but three other bids have also been tabled as the game’s governing body work closely in association with joint administrator Brendan Guilfoyle in an attempt to bring the long-running situation to a satisfactory close.

Details surrounding the bids are sketchy, bit it is believed Bradford City co-chairman Julian Rhodes is behind one of the groups, and chief operating officer Ralph Rimmer is positive about the club’s future in light of the most recent developments.

A statement from Rimmer released on Bradford’s Facebook page read: “We had constructive meetings with all the consortia that have submitted proposals to the administrator and we’re optimistic about the future of Bradford Bulls.

“There are now four confirmed bids for the Bulls and each consortium has been asked to submit business plans to us by Tuesday, August 21. Due to the sensitive nature of the current discussions we are unable to confirm who the bids are from at present.”

The offer from Super League Europe, Rimmer believes, has helped renew interest from other parties.

“It does appear that this renewed interest has come as a direct consequence of the offer from Super League Europe Ltd, which remains on the table,” he said.

“We understand the frustration regarding the ongoing process but it is vital that due diligence is carried out on all the bids and that ultimately the right owners are found for the good of the club and the sport as a whole.”

Guilfoyle, meanwhile, met with the RFL to discuss the bids on Wednesday and is happy that all parties have the funds required to complete a deal.

“We are pleased to be working collaboratively with the RFL to agree on a purchaser and sell the club,” he said.

“We now have all the ingredients that the RFL has requested and funds proven from three bidders plus the Super League Europe Ltd offer.

“The RFL will consider the bidders’ business plans which are to be received by the Tuesday deadline, and all concerned do understand the need to bring this to a swift conclusion.”