Derby County have received a one-month extension on the deadline that will decide the club’s fate.

The Rams need to provide the EFL with a proof of funds that they can afford to see out the remainder of the season. Otherwise, the club faces liquidation. 

The initial deadline was set for February 1, but the club have released a statement confirming that they have received a one-month extension.

“Today’s development will allow the Club to meet its ongoing obligations whilst giving a further four weeks to continue the discussions with the interested bidders and relevant stakeholders in respect of a sale, alongside providing additional time to seek clarity on the claims from Middlesbrough and Wycombe,” wrote the club on its official website. 

“It is appreciated that many people have been waiting to receive an update over the last 48 hours but given the complexity and ever-changing circumstances, our priority has been to provide clarity once there is a definitive position.

“Our commitment as ever remains addressing the many challenges at hand and we will look to provide updates as soon as we are able to.”

The club is still in talks over a new owner of the club, with three different bidders reportedly on the table. 

The latest offer was received by an American family known as the Binnies, from New England. 

The bid is said to be worth £28 million, but does not include Derby’s Pride Park Stadium. 

Mike Ashley and a consortium led by former Derby chairman Andy Appleby are the other two bidders looking to take over the club.

Derby received a 21-point deduction for going into administration, but Wayne Rooney has led the club back into a relegation survival scrap, with the club now eight points adrift of 21st place Reading. 

The Verdict

This is good news for Derby County in their quest for survival as a club. 

This will give the administrators Quantuma an extra four weeks to go through all the necessary background checks and financial tests to decide who will be the new owner of the club. 

That there are three bidders is also good for the club as it shows it is a viable project that people still want to be a part of. 

This will put off fears of the club going into liquidation, which is a worst case scenario that everyone needs to do their best to avoid.