League One rivals Charlton Athletic and Wigan Athletic are closing in on fresh takeovers after financial issues in recent seasons.

The Latics joined the Royals in being relegated from the Championship last season, and were also docked points after repeatedly paying staff late and going against an EFL plan.

Continuing into this season, Wigan are already set to start next season on -8 points.

However, news broke last night that "a deal has been agreed in principle for the sale of Wigan Athletic Football Club to a prospective new buyer - subject to EFL approval.

"The prospective new owners have committed to resolving all outstanding liabilities at the earliest opportunity."

The identity of the prospective buyers are currently unknown.

Similarly, recent years at the Valley have been marred with off-field issues, most notably under previous owner Roland Duchatelet.

Currently owned by Dane Thomas Sandgaard, the Addicks have been marrooned in the third tier for four years.

The club’s CEO Peter Storrie said: “A deal has been agreed and a share purchase agreement has been signed by Thomas Sandgaard and SE7 Partners. We’ll now work with SE7 Partners and the EFL to meet the league requirements, which is a process that can take some time.

“In the meantime, the day-to-day running of the club will not be impacted. Our preparation and recruitment for the 2023/24 season is well under way. We have our targets for our men’s team and our women’s team. Led by Dean Holden and Karen Hills, those plans continue to progress and will not be halted while we await the approval. The aim is to put the club in the best position to achieve our targets for next season - a top-six finish for the men’s team and further progression for the women’s team.”

Former Sunderland director, Charlie Methven, is said to be heading up the deal to take over in South London.