Kirchner meets Morris but takeover at an ‘impasse’
DERBY County’s preferred bidder Chris Kirchner says the Rams takeover remains at an “impasse” after a meeting with former owner Mel Morris yesterday.
Kirchner spoke with former Rams owner Morris and other “key parties” about the American businessman’s bid to take the club out of administration. Key to finalising Kirchner’s move for the Rams is Pride Park Stadium, which is owned by Morris.
Derby’s 2018 accounts revealed that Morris had separated the ground from the club’s ownership, buying it with a company registered in his name to comply with financial fair play regulations.
It has been said that Derby City Council could potentially buy the stadium off Morris and then do a deal with Kirchner, either for a lease or buy.
Kirchner, who was at Saturday’s game against Cardiff City, issued an update on Twitter yesterday, and also warned supporters against sending threats to Morris.
“I’ve spoken to Mel this morning in a meeting with several of the key parties,” he wrote.
“We remain at an impasse but I’m hopeful everyone will come around to agree to save this great football club so that we can move on with rebuilding it.
“I want to also say that it has been brought to my attention that Mel has received death threats and other threatening messages.
“There is absolutely NO place for that. Tensions are high. There is an unbelievable amount of emotion involved.
“However, violence and/or the threat of it is NEVER acceptable and I ask that everyone lets this play out in an appropriate manner.”
Kirchner then responded to a supporter who pleaded with him on Twitter not to give up on the club.
“I’m not, I’m still here,” Kirchner added.
“I’ve gotten myself sick trying to get this completed. So many people on my side have worked through the night all week. Wayne (Rooney) was even with us until almost 3am on Friday night. We want to be a part of Derby and are doing all we can.”