An HMRC winding-up petition against Bolton has yet again been adjourned after the High Court decided to give a consortium led by former professional footballer Dean Holdsworth time to complete a takeover.Â
Hearing Adjourned to Allow Time for Takeover
The FA has given approval for Holdsworth’s Sports Shield group to complete the purchase of Bolton Wanderers for £7.5m but want the final decision on transfer dealings for the next five windows. Current owner Eddie Davies says he expects the deal to be done within the next week. Wanderers, who are £172.9m are due in court next 21 March.
A club statement reportedly read:
“Bolton Wanderers can announce that the club has been granted a third and final adjournment of 14 days by the High Court at today’s hearing in respect of the winding-up petition, in order to allow the owner to complete a sale of the controlling interest in the club. The board would again like to thank all staff at the club for their loyalty and unfaltering commitment to the cause through this incredibly difficult period.”
The court in January heard that the club owed £2.2m to HMRC, however the subsequent hearing on 22 February allowed Holdsworth more time to resolve the VAT and unpaid tax bill when he assured the court that a takeover agreement of the club was close.
The Trotters who are also under the influence of a transfer embargo for breaking Financial Fair Play regulations, have sold off several assets over the winter including a training ground and stadium car park in order to raise funds to make a dent in the debt.
The Championship side lost 2-1 to Leeds on Saturday and are 10 points from safety at the bottom of the league.
Winding-up Petition Solicitors
If you have received a winding up petition our legal experts are able to provide legal advice and representation. Our team of solicitors and barristers can obtain a court adjournment; CVA’s or successfully challenge the validity of the winding up petition to ensure that the petition is dismissed, often without public advertisement.