Portsmouth have released a statement outlining their plans if the takeover by Sulaiman Al Fahim does not go ahead.

Although the Arabian businessman released his own statement rejecting claims he was about to pull out of the purchase of the south coast club, Pompey have covered their own tracks by letting the public know that they may have to sell other players to keep things rolling along.

"Regarding the takeover, during this transitional phase the priority is to keep Portsmouth Football Club operating," the statement read on the club's official website.

"This is something we have successfully achieved since the current owner, Alexandre Gaydamak, announced his intention to sell nine months ago. No new finance has been available to us since that time.

"The need to meet scheduled loan repayments to banks has meant that the club has had to sell players such as Lassana Diarra and Jermain Defoe in January, and more recently Glen Johnson and Peter Crouch.

"While it is our intention to add strength to the existing squad we cannot rule out the possibility of having to sell more players should the takeover not happen.

"However, we are assured that Sulaiman Al Fahim is committed to buying the club and investing in all areas, including the playing personnel.

"Everyone at the club shares the frustration of supporters. We know only too well that we need to add to the first-team squad, but at this moment in time there is a limited amount we can do until the takeover is completed.

"That is why Paul Hart and the team need the support of the fans more than ever in what promises to be a tough season in the Premier League.

"We can assure you that chief executive officer Peter Storrie, the board and everyone at the club is working tirelessly to keep the club running as professionally as possible in these difficult circumstances."