NEWS that Reading FC could be sold to another owner has been welcomed by one of the town’s MPs.
Yesterday, the football club was placed under another embargo over an unpaid tax bill. If it is not settled, HMRC could start winding up proceedings, bringing the club’s 152-year history to an end.
A statement published by the club yesterday said it continues to experience ‘significant’ cashflow issues.
“We can confirm that there has been significant interest from a number of parties seeking involvement in the club,” the club statement reads.
“Discussions and due diligence processes with a number of these potential investors continue apace. Our owner, Mr Dai, is openly inviting further credible offers of interest and declarations of intent from parties eager to pursue a potential sale of the club.”
This has been welcomed by Matt Rodda, the MP for Reading East.
He said: “The club has been through a very difficult and challenging period, which has been very hard for players, staff and fans.
“I am relieved to hear that the owner now seems to have decided to sell the club.
“Our whole community is hoping that our historic club can look forward to better days and a brighter future under new ownership.”
The EFL has already given the club a four-point deduction, placing them at the foot of the League One table and into a relegation dogfight.
Fan protests at today’s game against Burton Albion will call on Royals owner Dai Yongge to sell up. They will wear black and bring in bin bags to express their disappointment at the situation.
The club has warned fans to restrict their protests to the stands, and not enter the pitch.
“No matter the strength of feeling … it is unacceptable for any supporters to enter the field of play before, during or after the match or to throw missiles of any description onto the pitch,” a statement on the club’s website reads.
“We acknowledge that fans have the right to a voice and to make that voice heard, but any supporter protests which disrupt the running of a matchday or the club’s day-to-day operations, threaten to directly impact the staff, the players and other fans.
“Disruption to matchday operations can lead to significant penalties and fines for the club, which cannot possibly aid the club’s cause.
“Supporters in breach of the rules may also receive a criminal record or a banning order.”
The game kicks-off at 3pm at the Select Car Leasing stadium. Tickets are still available.
