York City FC could soon have a new owner.
Takeover talks are ‘at an advanced stage’ chairman Glen Henderson said today (Friday).
In a statement issued on the club website, he said: “Over the past few months, I have held talks with a number of potential buyers.
“Following these discussions, I believe that I have found the right people to take the club forward.
“The potential investors have now met with myself and the trust on numerous occasions and talks continue.
“We are now at an advanced stage with the interested party, and only a few details need to be completed.
“There are exciting times ahead for the club and I have complete faith that the ambition of the potential new owners will ensure a very bright future for YCFC.”
The identity of the interested party has not been released. One name that has been raised on fan forums is Matt Uggla, who was part of a consortium which tried to buy Yeovil Town.
That deal collapsed last month, with Mr Uggla said the deal “wasn’t to be”.
Praised the fans
Mr Henderson said: “As I’m sure you will understand, at this stage the nature of these negotiations are subject to strict processes and there is a degree of confidentiality that must be adhered to.
“Rest assured that we will keep supporters updated as and when we can, and a further announcement will be made in due course.”
Mr Henderson took over as chairman from Jason McGill in July last year. In a deal brokered by the York City Supporters’ Trust, he took 51% of the shares and the trust 49%.
At the time it was hailed as a new era where the views of the fans would be fully represented.
But things went sour when Mr Henderson summarily sacked John Askey, the manager that had overseen City’s promotion into the National League. Fan-owner relations never recovered, and the trust’s relationship with the chairman broke down too.
“My family and I, as owners and fans, have only ever wanted what is best for the club, and I hope that this proposed change of ownership will bring a brighter future for everyone at York City,” Mr Henderson said.
He praised the “unwavering commitment of York City fans”. Around 1,800 season tickets have been sold for next season, despite City escaping relegation by the narrowest of margins in May.
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