Multiple bidders in mix for Mariners licence: APL boss
Anna Harrington |
More than 12 potential buyers are in the market for embattled A-Leagues club Central Coast, says new Australian Professional Leagues chief executive Steve Rosich.
The Mariners are currently being propped up by the APL, allowing the men’s and women’s teams to keep playing amid their current uncertainty, after owner Mike Charlesworth gave back his licence to run the club.
Rosich, who started at the APL on January 5, was optimistic a strong owner would be appointed.
“In terms of the sales process, which was an important activity that we wanted to get under way promptly after taking on the licence, it’s going very well,” he said.
“And while we’re still early in that process, I’ve got no doubt that we will have multiple bidders for the licence.
“And I’m pleased to say that will come from over 12 international and Australian organisations and individuals that have not only signed non-disclosure agreements to be part of the process, but have been very engaged in the due diligence process.
“Twelve separate bids, yes, so that gives us great confidence that we’ll ultimately end up with multiple bidders.
“And what it also is, is a reflection point, I think, for us as a league, to say that this league has strong attractiveness, both internationally and nationally, and recognises the opportunity that we have in front of us.”
English club Queens Park Rangers are among parties previously linked to a move for the Mariners.
Rosich said it was hard to anticipate the timeline of a sale for Central Coast, saying landing the right owner was most important.
“I’d like to think that within the next week or two we’ll be engaged with preferred bidders, and then it’ll be dependent on how those conversations go,” he said.
“But I think it’s in our interests to firstly select the right partner to take the club forward, and the secondary consideration will be timeline.
“One of the biggest decisions a league can make is on the owners of the licences, so that process is firstly a very appropriately governed process.
“And in terms of our selection, which ultimately the board will work through and then Football Australia will consider, it will absolutely include other elements other than finances.”
Western United, meanwhile, have had their player registration ban – imposed by FIFA last May amid a dispute with former player Aleksandar Prijovic – lifted.
AAP understands the ban was lifted after Prijovic was recently paid in full, mere weeks after United – whose teams are in hibernation this season – successfully avoided liquidation and declared their intention to return.
“They’re working incredibly hard, and the focus has been on governance and financial matters,” Rosich said.
“And those financial considerations will keep getting worked through, and they’ll move quickly to operational matters so that there can be consideration for next season
“We’re there to support and guide, and Stephen Conroy, our chair, is leading that, which shows the importance the league is placing on it.
“And we’re very hopeful we can work through that promptly and consider it for next season.”
Rosich also refused to draw a line through Canberra’s inclusion in the A-League Men from next season.
AAP
