Administrators running crisis club Bradford say they expect to make a “significant announcement” within 48 hours, dousing speculation that the club is set to go into liquidation.

Officials responded to mounting fears for the future of the four-times Super League champions by issuing a statement intended to clarify their current plight.

Administrators say they received four bids by their deadline of December 7, and now have in place an offer from two preferred parties, which are subject to an ongoing due diligence process.

Gary Pettit ,of Northampton-based PBC Business Recovery, who was appointed one of the joint administrators, said: “I am conscious that the sale process has not been as straight forward as had been originally envisaged.

“However, I have said throughout that it is crucial we obtain the right deal – rather than the quickest deal – for the club’s future. We have continued to liaise with the RFL.

“Based upon the due diligence undertaken, I know that the parties with whom we are dealing have very substantial resources and experience to take the club forward.

“We believe that we will be able to make a further, more definitive announcement within the next 48 hours regarding sale of the club.

“At least one (if not both) of our preferred bidders wishes to have future supporter representation upon the board of directors. This is aimed at driving future transparency and accountability.”

Bradford, who were world club champions in 2006, were placed into administration – for the third time in four years – by chairman Marc Green a month ago to combat a winding-up petition brought by HM Revenue and Customs over an unpaid tax bill.

The club had their membership of the Rugby Football League withdrawn as a result of going into administration and could be docked as many as 12 competition points from the start of the 2017 season if and when they are re-admitted under new ownership.