Wigan Athletic takeover falls at the first hurdle

The development, while a blow, will not affect the club's appeal against its 12-point deduction.

"The joint administrators of Wigan Athletic Football Club have announced that, regrettably, negotiations with the preferred bidder for the club broke down late last night due to the bidder’s non-compliance in the first stage of exclusivity," read a statement.

"The joint administrators are now in discussions with the next preferred of the five parties that made a bid to buy the club, with a view to progressing a sale over the course of this weekend.

"Until either the bidder themselves, or the Football League (EFL), elects to announce the identity of the party that is now in exclusive process to acquire the club and its assets, that will remain confidential.

"In addition, following the results of the last match of the Championship season on Wednesday 22 July, the joint administrators can confirm that they will progress with the appeal of the automatic 12-point deduction triggered by the administration of the club.

"The appeal is due to be heard by an independent disciplinary commission on 31 July 2020 and the outcome will be announced by the EFL at some time after that date."

Local MP Lisa Nandy immediately tweeted: “This is really difficult news for staff, fans and the whole town.

“With the points appeal ongoing we really have been put in an impossible position.

“There has been lots of interest so no reason to give up hope. @LaticsOfficial is a great club and should have a secure future #wafc”