IT could be the end of May before negotiations to buy the Bury FC are concluded.

That's the news coming out of Gigg Lane in the week the administrators go back to the High Court to secure the Shakers' long term future.

RSM Robson Rhodes are scheduled to return to the High Court on Friday and are expected to request a one month extension to the administration.

If that's granted then administrators can hopefully secure a deal before the end of next month.

Joint administrator Matthew Dunham said: "During the past week there has been no significant change but we are hopeful we can finalise a deal."

It is understood that the administrators have sufficient promises of potential investment to allow them to request the High Court grant them an extension.

Asked if he was negotiating with one or more bidders Mr Dunham replied: "We are still talking to a number of interested parties and we are hopeful the court will grant us an extension."

The only consortium who have definitely expressed an interest in taking over the Shakers are the club's fundraising committee, who are keen to bring the ownership of the 117-year-old club back into local hands.

Meanwhile, two millionaires rumoured to be interested in gaining control of the club are Irish entrepreneur John Courtenay, who has also been trying to buy Carlisle United from Michael Knighton, and Sale Sharks Rugby Union Club owner Brian Kennedy.