MP Lisa Nandy "cautiously optimistic" about Wigan Athletic sale

And she hopes the deal will be approved by the EFL within days - allowing Latics to draw a line under arguably the darkest chapter in its history.

"I'm very optimistic about EFL approval," she said. "We've had a number of discussions in recent weeks and they are keen to secure the long-term future of the club, and realise how difficult it has been to get a deal.

"Hopefully this can be done in a matter of days and at that stage we can begin rebuilding the club."

Administrators have struck a deal to sell the club, with reports elsewhere suggesting Spanish businessman Jose Cristo is the successful bidder.

Discussions have taken place about what role the official supporters club - which raised £670,000 to save the club - can play in the future ownership model.

"I'm aware of the identity (of the bidder) and realise there is a huge interest in who they are but they are keen to protect their identity until it's complete," added Nandy, who was involved in the fundraising effort.

We've lost a lot of players and a training ground and there is a lot of work to be done, but given what I know I feel cautiously optimistic we can start a new chapter for the club.

"There will be questions to be answered and I'm determined to hold those responsible to account, but that is for the next chapter and this is about getting the EFL approval and making sure the fans have a strong role in any deal going forward."

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