Andrew Chalmers set for Bradford exit as club sale confirmed

Bradford’s shareholders say they have entered in to a conditional agreement to sell the club to a UK investor group, believed to be led by former Wakefield director Chris Brereton.

Uncertainty has plagued the Bulls yet again in recent months, with the supposed final game at Odsal played last month ahead of a move to Dewsbury in 2020, with claims a deal couldn’t be agreed to remain at their traditional home.

It’s unclear how that planned move will be impacted by the takeover, with further details set to be revealed soon.

Outgoing chairman Andrew Chalmers said in a statement: “The head of the investor group is well known in rugby league circles having last served as a Director and owner in the Super League.

“I am confident that the new ownership group will bring the resources, drive and expertise needed to build on the work completed over three years, and continue the path to transition this great Club back to Super League, for the benefit of all Stakeholders especially the loyal Bulls fans.

“Having completed their due diligence, we now await the RFL’s approval and sanction.

“It’s also anticipated that the Club will be shortly removed from all player signing restrictions.

“A more detailed statement will follow, including details of an upcoming fans forum.”

The exit of the outspoken Chalmers has been expected, with the club confirming in recent days of a discrepancy relating to pension payments.

At least one player had threatened to walk away from their contract because of the issues.

But nothing in the statement on pensions released on Saturday hinted at the upheaval to come, with the move to Dewsbury referenced within it.

Four-time Super League and three-time World Club champions Bradford have endured a turbulent last decade.

They entered administration three times in five years before being liquidated in January 2017.

A new club, led by Chalmers, was allowed to start the 2017 season in the Championship with a 12-point deduction, but was relegated at the end of the campaign.