A takeover of Blackburn Rovers is unlikely to happen before the New Year.

The Lancashire Evening Telegraph says Rovers' main share-holders, the Walker Trustees, are still keen to sell their 99.8 per cent stake in the club, providing a fit and proper' buyer can be found.

But, although Rothschilds are still in dialogue with several interested parties, a change of ownership is not thought to be imminent.

Rovers' chairman, John Williams, said: "Our shareholders remain willing sellers and Rothschilds continue to have exploratory discussions with a number of interested parties, but nothing is imminent."

American-based businessman Dan Williams (right) is the only person to have publicly confirmed an interest in buying Rovers, but he has yet to lodge an acceptable bid for control.