Sheffield Wednesday have reportedly responded to the chance to merge with Sheffield United by their most unexpected takeover candidates yet.
Kris Wigfield sends fresh Sheffield Wednesday warning
The Owls have set a soft deadline of December 5 and have received proof of funds from several candidates as they look to narrow their list down to those ready to launch worthwhile bids.
The gravity of their situation was slammed home by their defeat in the Steel City derby last weekend, with Sheffield United brushing them to one side in dominant fashion. Destined for League One after their points deduction, Sheffield Wednesday desperately need their takeover to go to plan.
Co-administrator Kris Wigfield admitted after that defeat that there may be more difficult news on the way, too. He told the club’s social media accounts: “It will not be like this forever.
“At the same time, I have to be honest: there may be more difficult news coming, including the possibility of a further points deduction. I want to be upfront about that because our supporters deserve transparency. But I also want to be clear: the period between now and January should be as tough as it gets.”
Reports have already mentioned a number of names among the takeover candidates, including former Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley. The former Magpies chief is seemingly looking to get back into English football and could restore his reputation at Hillsborough. But he’s not the only candidate.
John McEvoy has also been mentioned since Sheffield Wednesday entered administration and it will be interesting to see if he’s among the final names. What is for sure is that he’s unlikely to be joined on the final list of names by those at Bramall Lane who reportedly offered a shock merger.
Owls respond to Sheffield United offer
As reported by the Telegraph, Sheffield United’s American owners were among the Sheffield Wednesday takeover candidates and were planning to merge the two clubs if their approach was successful. To no surprise, the Owls quickly shut that down and have been fortunate enough to have plenty of interest from elsewhere.
Not many at Hillsborough believed it could get worse than Dejphon Chansiri, but a merger with Sheffield United would be their nightmare scenario.
It would take their club from administration to the very end. It would end a historic rivalry and change the landscape of football in Sheffield. The Owls, thankfully, saw sense and shut down any idea of a merger or takeover by the Blades’ American owners.
Sheffield Wednesday now braced for imminent "concrete" takeover bid
Things are looking up for the Owls.
ByTom Cunningham
Instead of seeing Barry Bannan in Sheffield United colours, Wednesday fans will be looking ahead to December 5 when they’re likely to find out much-needed information on their next owners.