Council rejects Salford's attempts to buy stadium

Salford Red Devils have played here since leaving The Willows in 2011

Salford City Council have pulled out of negotiations with Salford Red Devils over the club's attempt to purchase Salford Community Stadium.

The council, which owns the ground, cut ties with Jacobson Management, a group who had been introduced to the stadium by representatives of the Red Devils' new owners.

A statement issued by the city's mayor, Paul Dennett, said that the council was not able to "progress negotiations" or carry out due diligence as required.

In response, the club expressed their disappointment about how the decision would "impact negatively" on everyone connected with the club.

The stadium is currently shared by the Red Devils and Premiership rugby union club Sale Sharks.

The council reinforced its support for Salford and the importance of rugby league in the city, highlighting their purchase of the stadium in the first place.

It also reemphasised its commitment to working with tenants at the stadium to ensure it "delivers" for the whole of the city.

The council also wants to ensure a "stable and sustainable" home for the Devils.

But in light of this news, Salford said that they would review "all available options" and would continue in its efforts to "stabilise" the club for the community.

It is the latest setback in a difficult season for the Red Devils.

Despite being taken over on the eve of the season by a consortium led by Swiss businessman Dario Berta, they have been beset by problems.

Wages have been paid late, key players have left, while chief executive Chris Irwin resigned after less than three months in the job.

Forced to field a weakened team with youngsters used to make up the numbers, Salford have suffered a number of heavy defeats and are bottom of Super League with one win from their 10 matches.