American businessman Chris Kirchner withdraws bid to buy Derby County
Kirchner was named as the preferred bidder in April
Derby's administrators have confirmed American businessman Chris Kirchner has pulled out of his deal to buy the club.
Kirchner was named as the preferred bidder in April, but failed to meet Friday's 5pm deadline to show he was in a position to complete a takeover.
A spokesperson on behalf of Derby's joint administrators said: "The joint administrators can confirm that today, Mr Kirchner has withdrawn his offer to acquire the business and assets of the club.
"We are aware that some will be concerned by this news, however, the joint administrators wish to reassure the club's staff, players and supporters that they are continuing to actively engage with a growing number of interested parties, each of whom have a real willingness to complete a deal as soon as possible."
One of those, former Newcastle owner Mike Ashley, confirmed On Saturday that he still retained an interest in the Rams, who were relegated from the Sky Bet Championship last month.
The English Football League said on Sunday it was becoming "increasingly concerned" that the protracted bid to take Derby out of administration was "a real risk to the integrity of next season's competition".
The EFL said that because of the delays - Derby were placed in administration last September - it would become more involved in the search for a new buyer.
Derby were docked 21 points last season and relegation to the third tier for the first time since 1986 was confirmed with three games remaining.