Bolton’s crisis-hit season has descended into further chaos after contrasting statements from the club and prospective owner Laurence Bassini concerning a potential takeover.
Wanderers face Nottingham Forest on Sunday in what was scheduled to be their final game of the season, but after last weekend’s fixture with Brentford was called off as players went on strike due to unpaid wages, their campaign will conclude against the Bees next Tuesday.
Bolton insist there is no deal in place, takeover talks have ended and that they will not recommence.
An official club statement read: “Following the request from Mr Bassini to allow him a further 48 hours to complete his funding package and present this to the EFL, we can now confirm that no subsequent meeting took place and nothing further has been presented for the board of the EFL to consider.
“Given the urgency of the situation, which has been expressed to Mr Bassini, we now consider his approach for the club at an end and no further discussions will be entered into on the matter with him.”
But Bassini not only contradicted that statement, he believes he is in “full control” of the club.
”I have taken control of the club this morning and instructed staff not to make any further statements,” Bassini told Sky Sports.
“I have served a ‘specific performance’ notice on Ken Anderson which means he has to give up the share certificates to the Company, the EFL have now seen proof of funds and my lawyers are dealing with that with the League.
“I have proof of funds and a watertight contract, Ken Anderson is not able to do what he is doing to this club, and it has to stop.
“Ken Anderson cannot sell the club to anyone else, he is on notice and would be in breach of contract should he try to, I am the only person who can buy Bolton Wanderers.”
The EFL have responded to Bassini's claims, urging him to prove the source and sufficiency of his funding.
The statement reads: “The EFL is aware of further comments being made this morning regarding the ownership of Bolton Wanderers and remains in contact with representatives from both the Club and Mr Bassini.
“The EFL’s role is to ensure any individual looking to acquire control meets the requirements of the League’s Regulations, which includes providing information to demonstrate the source and sufficiency of funding.
“We remain available to the parties to assist where we can.”
