Derby County's administrators have reassured fans that they are in "active dialogue" with potential buyers despite missing a takeover deadline.
The Championship outfit have been in financial trouble for several years and have been in administration for more than five months.
Wayne Rooney is currently trying to steer the Rams clear of relegation as they battle to remain in the second tier.
Administrators were given a deadline of March 1 to provide proof that they could fund the club until the end of the season.
That was an extension on the original deadline but after seemingly hearing nothing back by the second date, the EFL claimed on Wednesday that the "very future" of Derby was under threat.
Now Quantuma, the club's administrators, have confirmed positive talks are on going as they attempt to find the best buyer.
A spokesperson said: "The joint administrators are in active dialogue with prospective purchasers of the club and are working with their advisers to clarify a number of matters relating to their bids.
"Due to the complex nature of the mechanics of the bids received, it is necessary for us to work through each of these matters individually, to ensure the bids meet our terms of purchase.
"Whilst we understand the frustration of fans, who are understandably anxious that the Club’s future is resolved, we remain confident that we will be in a position to name a preferred bidder shortly.
"We welcome the support received from the EFL yesterday and will continue working with them, and everyone who has the Club’s best interests at heart, to secure the best long-term outcome for Derby County."
On Wednesday the EFL said: "The EFL Board considered the latest information provided by Quantuma, including their forecast which showed the Club has sufficient cash to trade until the end of the season.
"It is clear that there are still a number of challenges to be dealt with by the Administrators as they work to confirm the preferred bidder status and exit the Club out of Administration."
They also claimed they were "deeply concerned at the lack of any form of substantial progress in respect of the outstanding matters affecting the club."
Despite the off the pitch issues and a points deduction the Rams are only eight points off survival.
However a defeat last time out at Cardiff City saw Rooney lamented the "unacceptable" officials.
He said: “Ask the officials. I have been unhappy with the officials for the majority of the season. It’s very frustrating because we’ve got a group of very good, young, honest players giving everything.
"They’re being spoken down to and they’re not getting decisions.
