Derby takeover: Chris Kirchner makes new statement as deal nears completion

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Derby County fans could finally be set for some good news after potential owner Chris Kirchner confirmed he has moved a step closer to completing his protracted takeover.

The Rams have had a miserable time over the last 12 months with administration, points deductions and transfer embargoes amid a backdrop of uncertainty over their long-term future. The club will spend next season in League One for the first time in 1986 after the points deduction gave them a huge handicap that they ultimately were unable to recover from, resulting in relegation from the Championship last term.

Despite that, American businessman Kirchner has remained super-keen to try and get a deal done. Now, issuing an update on his social media channels, Kirchner has given the clearest indication yet that a deal is set to be ratified.

He revealed on Twitter that he "will be the next owner of Derby County" after contracts were exchanged between himself and the club’s administrators Quantuma, who have been in place at the East Midlands club since last September.

The only hurdle left to clear is believed to be the issue over the club's stadium, which is owned by former Derby chairman Mel Morris. In order for a takeover of the club to go through, an agreement on either leasing the