The immediate future of the Newcastle Jets is again on shaky ground after a prospective ownership group pulled out of the running to purchase the club.
According to Nine Newspapers, the group withdrew after the club was unable to produce audited financial accounts for the last two years.
The consortium – believed to have included several locally-based businessmen, told the Jets and the FFA on Monday they were formally withdrawing their interest.
A spokesperson from the FFA stated they are continuing to work towards finding a viable solution that’s right for the club and the region.
“A change of ownership is clearly needed to revitalise the club and put it on a sound footing again and continue their important role in the NNSW community and we are hoping to have a new owner for the Newcastle Jets very soon.”
Nine Newspapers report, other A-League owners will have to bankroll the club for an interim period until new owners are found.
There are also reports some elements of the FFA board feel the Jets should withdraw from the A-League, with a view to bringing the club back in the following season with a new owner and on a more stable footing.
Squad members including Bernie Ibini and Steven Ugarkovic have been agitating for a release from their contracts due to the club’s uncertain future.
Newcastle also doesn’t have a permanent coach and has several vacant spots in its playing squad yet to be filled.
Jets owner, Martin Lee has not put any funds into the club since October 2019.
The Jets will play the Brisbane Roar tonight at Coffs Harbour in a pre-season friendly.
NBN News will have more tonight at 6.
