Swedish consortium retain Hartlepool United interest but tax bill threatens to pull plug on Pools future

But, should no investment be secured, a looming tax bill could effectively put an end to Pools as we know it.

Kindberg's Swedish group of businessmen are understood to still be at the negotiating table, with Pools desperate for investment after Hartlepool-born entrepreneur Chris Musgrave pulled out of talks to take the helm at the Vic.

In a statement, released on Tuesday, Musgrave said the financial challenges facing the National League club are "serious indeed" and he has not been able to identify the exact amount of cash that would be required to make available to save the club. He added that he was not prepared to "sign blank cheques".

As a result, having seen light at the end of the tunnel Pools have again been left with an uncertain future.

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But a number of interested parties retain an interest, with the Swedish consortium, who provided proof of funds to the value of £3million recently, still yet to show their hand.

Kindberg told Swedish TV last week that he would make a decision on whether to invest by yesterday.

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A number of other interested parties have held initial talks, but are yet to sign non-disclosure agreements or clear the proof of funds hurdle.

Any potential takeover could take weeks, if not longer, but a more pressing concern is one huge tax bill looming large on the horizon.

Having covered the staff and player wages, which were understood to have been paid today, Pools must also find the funds to settle an outstanding bill to the HMRC.

Hartlepool United takeover is OFF after Chris Musgrave withdraws interestBut, at present, they do not have the means to cover the bill which is estimated to be around the £50,000 mark.

It is due within the next 14 days.

Due to a strict clampdown on football clubs paying their tax on time, the HMRC are likely to give Pools just seven days to pay.

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And has been the case in the past, should they be unable to cover the cost they will be issued with a winding up order. Administrators may well be summoned, should payment not be agreed, and given the financial plight at Victoria Park liquidation could follow.

Should Pools go into administration they will be hit with a 10-point deduction by the National League. Should liquidation ensue assets would be stripped and the club would cease to exist in its current format.