ADMINISTRATORS Begbies Traynor will be extending their current exclusivity period once again to allow more time for the preferred bidders to conclude a deal to buy Worcester Warriors.

The consortium led by Jim O'Toole and James Sandford have had preferred bidder status since the beginning of November.

That exclusivity period ran out on November 30 but a two week extension was provided by Begbies in order to try and get a deal across the line.

Julie Palmer has confirmed to the Worcester News that another extension will be granted, although it is not specified as to how long that will be.

Speaking to the Hereford and Worcester Warriors Podcast last week, Palmer explained that there has been a hold up in the process due to the Rugby Football Union's fit and proper director's test.

The RFU are seemingly taking their time on that process and appear to be applying more stringent measures than perhaps has been seen before for any potential buyer of a rugby club.

Today is also the deadline for clubs to apply to play in next season's Championship, which Warriors have been officially consigned to by the RFU, should they be able to re-form.

But last week the governing body stated there would be some room for manoeuvre in regards to that deadline.