Wednesday 29 October 2014 17:53, UK
Bolton have played down talks of a potential takeover of the club by a Thai consortium.
It has been reported that groups BEC-Tero and Siam Sport Syndicate are preparing to make a joint bid to buy the Lancashire club, believed to be in the region of £40m.
Quotes attributed to BEC-Tero managing director Bryan Marcar have lent substance to the rumours.
However, Trotters chairman Phil Gartside has told the Bolton News: “We have spoken to several parties who have expressed interest in investing in the club but these quotes from Thailand come as a complete surprise to me.
“Other than what has appeared this morning it is business as usual here.”
Bolton owner Eddie Davies and Gartside have admitted that the club, who in December 2013 announced they were £160m in debt, could be sold if the right offer was received from a suitable buyer.
Marcar has indicated an interest, telling nationmultimedia.com: “As for the bid to take over Bolton, I must admit I have a close relationship with the club's president.
“The club has plenty of property, and most importantly, they have their own stadium, hotel and football academy.
“In terms of their financial status, they made profits between 2004 and 2006, but suffered losses since then, with their debt now standing at 150 million pounds.
“They're quite ready in almost every aspect. That will help us benefit in many ways, especially when it comes to Thai players playing in England.”
