The Love Rugby League online news site has reported that a “prominent local businessman”, who has not been named, is set to take control of the cash-strapped Knights.

It comes after the concerning financial position of the Betfred Super League club was put under the spotlight when it was revealed the Knights requested an advance on its £50,000 monthly funding from the Rugby Football League (RFL).

The Knights received £650,000 in central distribution mainly from their TV rights deal, while Bradford and the other 11 Super League clubs receive £1,300,000 each.

With weeks to build a squad, the Knights sit nineth in the table as the team enter their first Super League season.

Knights players and staff were told on Friday morning (July 10) by current owner Clint Goodchild that a transition of power is “imminent at the club, which may likely see him step aside”, Love Rugby League reported.

The news site said it had also been told a “wealthy businessman with strong links to York – and who has been an active supporter of the club for years – is now ready to step in and attempt to drive the Knights forward on a stronger financial footing”.

It added that plans for a takeover are understood to have been happening behind the scenes for several weeks and are now nearing a conclusion.

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The Knights made it three consecutive wins at home to Hull FC on Thursday evening with a 20-16 win.

While it has certainly been challenging at times for the Knights, Goodchild remains confident that there should be excitement for the future at the LNER Community Stadium.

“We are encouraged for what is to come leading into next season,” he said.

“We will be a year more experienced as a full-time Super League operation in 2027 as we anticipate receiving our equal share of central distribution and continue to see significant opportunities for the growth of the club.

“Overall, we remain positive and as always continue to tackle anything that comes our way with enthusiasm.

“As expected, this season has presented challenges, but with the support of the RFL and wider Rugby League community along with our incredible fans it has also reinforced our belief that York has an exciting future ahead in the Super League.”