Derby County have already been hit with two big points deductions - and a third could be on its way next season.
The Rams were docked 12 points after entering administration last September. Then, in November, a further nine-point handicap was handed down after they admitted to breaching the EFL's profitability and sustainability rules over the sale of Pride Park.
Now, a fresh report claims that another points deduction could be on the way next season. Derby, who are currently bottom of the Championship and eight points adrift of safety, have long been in search of new owners. Administrators Quantuma have set a deadline of today (Friday) for takeover offers to be submitted with three parties said to be in contention to buy the East Midlands outfit.
However, the Telegraph claims that none of the bids would comply with certain EFL insolvency policy regulations. That could well trigger another punishment, by way of a points deduction. It is likely that this would be handed down next season, giving the Rams another hurdle to overcome in what will most likely be their first season in the third tier since 1986.
The report claims that if the takeover doesn't meet a key EFL requirement of paying unsecured creditors 25p in every pound, the deduction could be as high as 15 points next term. Quantuma have regularly said that they are confident they can secure a buyer and avoid the prospect of liquidation.
Earlier this month they released a statement, saying: "The joint administrators are in active dialogue with prospective purchasers of the club and are working with their advisers to clarify a number of matters relating to their bids.
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"Due to the complex nature of the mechanics of the bids received, it is necessary for us to work through each of these matters individually, to ensure the bids meet our terms of purchase. "Whilst we understand the frustration of fans, who are understandably anxious that the Club’s future is resolved, we remain confident that we will be in a position to name a preferred bidder shortly."
Former Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley is said to be still interested in buying Derby after his sale of the Magpies last October. On the pitch Derby's bid for a miraculous survival has taken a hit in recent weeks. They have won just one of their last seven league games and that has left them with a big mountain to climb.
They host Preston North End on April 2, after the international break, knowing they are running out of time to preserve their second tier status. Rooney suffered another blow this week when talented winger Festy Ebosele signed a pre-contract agreement with Italian side Udinese. The 19-year-old has been a regular for Derby but will link up with the Serie A side in the summer. Derby are likely to have a skeleton squad once the season ends, with a clutch of contracts nearing expiry.
