Derby County: Chris Kirchner confirmed as preferred bidder to buy Rams

The joint administrators of Derby County have confirmed that Chris Kirchner is the preferred bidder.

The man withdrew his initial bid for Derby three months ago.

Derby has been in administration since September.

The best deal for the club's stakeholders is presented by the administrators, which will secure the long-term future of the club.

The stadium is owned by Mel Morris, who was a majority shareholder of Derby County.

The terms of the club's occupation of Pride Park stadium will be negotiated with external stakeholders, according to a statement from Quantuma.

The administrators entered into a period of exclusiveness with Mr Kirchner and his advisers, during which further operational, commercial and contractual discussions will take place.

The scrutiny of the owners and directors of the English Football League will be included in the formal proposals.

This process will allow us to understand what hurdles may still need to be overcome before things can move forward that are in the best interests of the club, its fans and community.

More to come.