English Rugby League Club Salford Reds 'Close To Takeover'

Financially troubled English Super League rugby club Salford City Reds "could have new owners by next week," according to Neil Barker of the MANCHESTER EVENING NEWS. Club Chair John Wilkinson, who is battling to avoid administration, has told players and staff that he is "in talks with two interested parties and a takeover deal is imminent." New owners are expected to work closely with Peel Holdings. Wilkinson assured players that the club’s "current plight is not as serious as the financial problems that almost forced Super League rivals Bradford Bulls out of business earlier in the year." Labour-run Salford town hall and the Rugby Football League top brass "have also put forward the name of potential new investors who have expressed an interest in taking charge of the City Reds" (MANCHESTER EVENING NEWS, 12/14).