THE protracted takeover of Kidderminster Harriers has taken another twist after prospective owner Chris Swan rubbished claims that he was set to complete the deal today.

The Aggborough outfit released a statement yesterday claiming the Stratford-based businessman was set to fin-alise his purchase of the club.

A statement from Harriers read: “We can confirm that the board of directors is, subject to contract, looking to sell the football club to Chris Swan having accepted a takeover offer.

“The legal representatives of both parties have been instructed to continue work on the formalities of this sale.

“The club has spoken with Swan’s associate, Mark Fennemore, who confirmed Swan is looking to complete the sale during Thursday, February 3.

“The club hopes the remaining contractual issues can be completed to allow a speedy sale to that end.”

However, Swan said the statement from Harriers came as a complete shock to him. The property entrepreneur claims he has yet to complete due diligence.

“This statement is news to me,” Swan said. “I would have thought I would have been contacted about any release regarding me completing a takeover.”

The latest twist will be greeted with dismay by the long-suffering Harriers fans as they wait to discover the fate of their club.

Staff and players at Agg-borough were told on Monday they have not been paid for January and it is unsure when they will be.

Meanwhile, Redditch United manager Matt Gardiner and his assistant John Snape have left the cash-strapped Blue Square Bet North club after it cut its playing budget to zero.

The Reds, who are two points adrift at the foot of the table, have asked all their squad to play for free.