LAST-DITCH talks to save the Bradford Bulls will continue tomorrow, the Telegraph & Argus understands.

The development follows the news that what looked liked being a successful bid for the club has been rejected by the administrators.

That deal was expected to be done on December 23 but the negotiations have dragged on over Christmas.

The T&A now understands the bid has finally been rejected by joint administrator Gary Pettit, despite the Rugby Football League giving it its backing.

The future of the beleaguered club, which has been in administration since November 14, appears to be on the brink, although sources say that another bidder has come forward triggering the 11th hour talks.

Mr Pettit was expected to make a statement about the situation today but he has been unavailable for comment.

There has also been no update from the RFL.

The plight of the club is causing increasing concern.

The club’s 65-strong playing and coaching staff, plus the non-playing staff of 68 people, are due to be paid their wages tomorrow.

Tonight, Bradford South MP Judith Cummins said: “The dragging on is getting ridiculous now.

“The bid has been rejected, but now we hear they are looking at something else.

“I have always been worried that parties may be more interested in the site than the club.

“There’s a chance that we might not see rugby league being played at Odsal in 2017, and that would be absolutely awful.

“It’s too valuable for Bradford to lose.”

In a message to Bulls fans today, team coach Rohan Smith tweeted: "You have come this far... be patient, the right result is what the club needs."

Paul Butterworth, chairman of BullBuilder, the Bradford Bulls Supporters Trust, praised the “professionalism” and attitude shown by Mr Smith and his team, and said the ongoing situation was worse for the club’s players and staff than for the long-suffering fans.

“Everybody wants answers for the staff and players, we really feel for them,” he said.

“We’re tough cookies from Bradford and Yorkshire, and if we keep the faith, we’ll get there.

“You’ve got to admire Rohan Smith and the players, and I think all fans are full of admiration for them.

“For us as fans it’s a passion, but for them it’s a livelihood.

“People are very sensitive and want a positive result, everybody wants it to happen.

“I think that all the fans are behind Rohan, and the professionalism the staff and players have shown throughout this has been remarkable.

“Whatever happens, the bond the fans have with the club will be stronger because of this.

“We will come back bigger and better.”

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