London Broncos: Redundancies expected ahead of deal for club

London Broncos are set to make a number of members of staff redundant next week, BBC London 94.9 understands.

The move is to enable a deal over the future of the club to be struck.

"We are working through a number of key issues and all the players and staff have been engaged in meetings and are fully up to date on the situation," chief executive Gus Mackay said.

"We have to reduce our cost base so that we can ensure the future of the club, which is our priority."

The Broncos have not signed any new players for 2014 and currently have no venue for their home games next season.

A skeleton backroom staff is expected to be retained, along with some players.

Mackay, head coach Tony Rea, two player performance managers and the club's long-serving kitman Stevie Magee are believed to be staying with the club at this stage.

But a number of players and other non-playing staff are understood to be leaving the Twickenham Stoop.

The Broncos say they engaged in "detailed and advanced discussions on their future for 2014 and beyond".

Mackay said: "We are involved in ongoing discussions in relation to the 2014 season, following a detailed exploration of the options over recent months.

"Negotiations are at a sensitive stage but discussions are progressing as we go into the necessary details."

Speculation over the club's future has grown in recent weeks, with owner David Hughes yet to confirm he will continue funding the team.

Several first-team players are already leaving the club or retiring, with hooker Tommy Lee the latest to depart after signing a deal with Salford.

The Rugby Football League has held talks with players and officials about the club's future.

"We are aware of the ongoing concerns over the London Broncos and the club's future," an RFL spokesman told BBC London 94.9.

"We have met with players to listen to their concerns.

"We held a series of meetings with the club's chief executive and owner in recent weeks, and continue to work with the London Broncos to help them find a positive solution."

The Broncos play their final game of the Super League season at Hull KR on Sunday.