There have been talks, but there is no deal

Tonight's Fans Forum confirmed that there have been serious talks about a takeover of the club this week, involving Roland's representative (Lieven de Turck), but no deal is in sight: Takeover update

The report of the Forum meeting confirmed that the talks have not been a mirage imagined by Jim White or invented by Rick Everitt. However, one interpretation is that Roland has used them, and in particular Jim White, to put pressure on the second (British) bidders as well as the primary Australian/American consortium.

They are supposedly now in 'sixth gear', hopefully going forward and not in reverse. I have always been sceptical about this group of bidders, particularly in terms of their finances. The other bidders seem to be continue to be either phantoms or time wasters.

Lieven de Turck did say that the complexity of the consortium had been reduced which he thought was good news. Contrary to one argument that has been circulating, he was satisfied that the consortium did have the money.

De Turck also confirmed that a bidder had been shown round the training ground the weekend before last, another report that had been challenged. The nationality of this person was Australian.

The news will no doubt be seen as vindication by nay sayers, but they should be careful what they wish for. Placing faith in the skills and dedication of Lee Bowyer may get us a play off place, but the play offs are a lottery. A new owner could bring the funds that Bowyer needs for real success.

The news that Nathan Jones is leaving Luton for Stoke City, which has driven Hatters fans more crazy than since they used lead in their hat production, does boost our chances, however, as he is clearly a first rate coach.

If the principal bid does not progress, the outlook is very bleak with the club's losses mounting. It does seem to be progressing more slowly than many of us had hoped. As always, it is the hope that kills you.