Spireites director confirms talks with potential buyer have been terminated

A statement on the club’s website revealed that the negotiations had been ongoing for five months, but the decision makers opted to end the process.

It read: “Following five months of negotiations over the sale of the football club, we feel it is in the best interests of the club to terminate any further negotiations with the party involved.

“We firmly believe that the offer was genuine and entered into NDAs and due dilligence over a six-week period.

“The club has supplied accounts, financial information on the club and the team and everything that they have required, dating back over four years.

“We have been conscious of timings, particularly with the new season looming and even if contracts could be agreed tomorrow, there would still need to be further due dilligence from the National League before they could take control.

“Both myself and Dave Allen are well aware of the fans’ concerns and the manager has made his feelings known to us in no uncertain terms.

“We are excited about the new season and now wish to draw a line under speculation surrounding any sale. I will continue to oversee the running of the club going forward.

“Due to the delicate state of negotiations, an embargo was placed on player transfers and the manager was extremely patient and understanding.

“The selection process for the two new associate directors was also suspended and the appointment process will now be resurrected next week.

“There will be no further comment on the matter at this stage.”