Wigan Athletic takeover bid in - WITHOUT supporter backing

Speaking exclusively to Wigan Today, Jose Miguel Garrido Cristo - who is fronting the bid on behalf of two unnamed Spanish investors - says the group are still keen to have the supporters on board.

But with the EFL holding their next meeting on Thursday - and the deadline for paperwork today (Tuesday) - they have reluctantly opted to plough on without agreement.

"We have had some conversations with the supporters over the last few days," revealed Garrido.

"And the situation is we have to submit all the information the EFL requires in time for Thursday's meeting.

"We cannot wait any longer. We need a decision now.

"The decision-making process of the supporters is a little bit complicated, it takes forever, because they have many people involved.

"And that is perfectly normal, because they are responsible for a lot of money that does not belong to them, it has been raised by the supporters, it belongs to many people.

"Hopefully we will have an agreement with the EFL, and of course we will sit down and discuss this again with the supporters.

"But we could not delay any more, because all of the information, the details, has to be in with the EFL today."

Garrido does not feel the absence of the Supporters Club's seal of approval will have any bearing on the EFL decision-makers.

"No, I don't think it will be a problem," he added. "All the EFL want is proof of funds, an agreement, and to pass the fit and proper test.

"It doesn't say anywhere that to buy a club you must have the backing of the supporters.

"Of course we want the supporters involved, though, we have said that already, and we would like to continue speaking with them.

"But it's not a condition of the EFL.

"They agree with us, that it would be a good idea, but it's not a must."

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