FA investigating Notts County finances, say reports

The Football Association (FA) is reportedly investigating Notts County over the financial situation at Meadow Lane.

Nottinghamshire Live says the FA has been alerted to the situation at the Magpies after being given the details by an unnamed source at the club.

A spokesman for the FA told Nottinghamshire Live: “The FA is aware of this matter and looking into it – however at this stage there’s nothing more we can add.”

Meanwhile, Talks to sell Notts County are at an “advanced stage”, according to the club’s owner Alan Hardy.

Hardy issued a statement following another week of bad headlines for the Magpies. Late last week it emerged that players and staff hadn’t been paid for June.

However, in a statement Hardy said that he was “extremely confident” that the club will be sold ahead of 10 July, when the Magpies face being wound up by the High Court.

Hardy said: “I am very pleased to say that, following hugely constructive talks today and over the weekend, I am extremely confident that a sale will be completed ahead of our upcoming court hearing on 10 July.

“Conversations with a group who I am certain have Notts’ footballing fortunes at heart are now at an advanced stage and I am sure supporters will be delighted to hear their plans for the club.”

Hardy also said that he was no longer in talks with a consortium led by convicted fraudster Alex May, but that he couldn’t reveal who he is negotiating with.

He added: “Apologies, once again, that I am unable to reveal any identities. At the request of all parties, this remains private business until formalities are completed. I can, however, confirm that we have ceased talks with the group associated with Alex May.

“Should our talks progress further as planned, I will be liaising with the prospective new owners to rectify the current situation regarding player and staff salaries at the earliest opportunity. I deeply regret being unable to fulfil this obligation to my employees and hope – and expect – there will be a speedy resolution.

“I am also aware that a great deal of cynicism is likely to come my way in response to this update, which I can understand following an immensely frustrating and disappointing chapter in the club’s history.

“However, I felt it was only right to bring supporters up to speed following the significant developments of the last few days.”