Derby County: EFL says 'lack of progress' in naming preferred bidder threatens future

The very future of Derby County is threatened by a lack of progress or proof of funding.

The Championship side has been in administration.

The administrators hope to name a preferred bidder for the Rams.

They say they are considering bids for the club, following deadlines set for offers at the end of last week.

The English Football League is deeply concerned about the lack of substantial progress, having originally asked for clarification by the beginning of February, before agreeing to defer the deadline for a month to give Quantuma more time to search for new owners.

Despite requesting an update almost 48 hours ago, there has been no communication from the administrators.

The administrators of Derby County Football Club have been advised by the EFL that the lack of progress on the two critical issues is threatening the club's future.

• Rams 'not wanted in Championship' - Rooney

Derby manager Wayne Rooney said in December that he hoped the preferred bidder would be confirmed by Christmas.

As the administrators sought to deal with compensation claims against the club, it did not happen.

Last month, Derby and Middlesbrough said they had reached a resolution over the claim brought against the Rams by their fellow Championship side after former owner Mel Morris reached a personal agreement withBoro counterpart Steve Gibson.

The administrators hope to be able to name the preferred bidder soon.

Everyone connected to the club wants to see its future resolved as soon as possible. We have a duty to ensure the best long-term outcome for Derby County.