Prospective Bradford Bulls owner Richard Lamb has almost certainly been ruled out of taking over the Odsal club after failing to provide proof of the £1million in funds required.
The London-based businessman, who has publicly stated his desire to take over the Bulls, fronted a consortium including former Bulls chief executive Abi Ekoku. Their offer was accepted by administrators last week before the RFL requested proof of funds to seal the deal. According to the Telegraph and Argus, Lamb was ‘unable to meet the deadline due to the money being held in an overseas bank account but says his consortium had “significant funds” at their disposal’.
It is also reported that Mandy Koukash – wife of Salford owner Marwan – and Bradford City joint-chairmen Julian Rhodes and Mark Lawn have not heard from Wilson since they made offers.
Rumours suggest a consortium led by representatives from Bradford Park Avenue are now favourites to take over the club.
Lamb said: “I have tried to be open and clear about what we have been trying to achieve with the club, which has been hard at times. If we are not the successful bid, then I hope the Bulls find an owner who will invest in the club this season and in future seasons.
“Two weeks ago, we put in a bid for OK Bulls and were asked last week for proof of funding. This we provided to both the RFL and the administrator, which showed a considerable amount of monies available.
“On Thursday we again had to show funds by lunchtime Friday. With the investor not in the country we were unable to do that within the timescale, which now appears to have derailed our bid.”
