YORK City chairman Glen Henderson has said he is willing to trigger a buy-back clause to allow the Supporters' Trust to purchase his majority shareholding.
The Trust have received written confirmation from Henderson and the fans group's board are in agreement that triggering the clause would be "in the best interests of the football club."
The clause allows the Trust to buy Henderson's stake at a price set by an independent valuation, however 51 per cent majority shareholder Henderson is not seeking to profit from the Trust's purchase and would consider an offer equal to his investment to the club at the time of the sale.
Henderson took charge at York in July after reaching an agreement with the Trust, who hold a 49 per cent stake, following the club's sale by the long-serving and divisive ex-chairman Jason McGill.
The South African-raised businessman quickly proved to be a hugely unpopular figure among City supporters following the shock sacking of manager John Askey, who secured promotion from the Vanarama National League North last season.
Askey later accused Henderson of meddling in first-team matters. Fans have since held 'Henderson out' banners at matches to protest against the decision.
Looking to a post-Henderson future, the Trust held an urgent meeting on Monday and are currently considering four options: Crowdfunding to achieve a 100 per cent supporter ownership model, forming a consortium of multiple investors, attracting a new investor partner or declining Henderson's offer of shares.
The Trust say that, at this stage, they are "keen to hear from any individual or consortium that may be interested in acquiring a majority shareholding in the football club."
Any interested parties are asked to contact info@ycst.org.uk before Friday, January 6.
Should the Trust find a credible investor, they will hold an informed vote to its members at a special general meeting.
The Trust have also said that they are encouraging supporters to make donations to enable them acquire Henderson's share, should they prefer a fan ownership model.
Donations can be made at www.ycst.org.uk/one-off-donation.
Should a third party investor later come on board, any donations would be "ringfenced for the club's future playing budget or essential working capital."
Reflecting on Henderson's spell at the club, currently spanning six months, the fans group said: "The Trust board are extremely disappointed that despite best efforts, things haven’t worked out with Glen as hoped.
"We are determined to learn from our mistakes and find a way forward that all supporters can get behind.
"Whilst the football club has faced many recent challenges, significant positive changes have been introduced and we are confident that given time the club will flourish.
"Now more than ever, we need supporters to come together as a united force."
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