Speaking in the Bournemouth Evening Echo Paul Baker is quoted as saying: "We have decided on a preferred bidder. We have spoken to them and asked them to lodge a deposit. On receipt of that, we will then enter into a period of exclusivity, during which they will carry out and complete their due diligence. We would expect the deal to be completed within two to three weeks. No, because it is subject to a confidentially agreement. It will be known when both parties have agreed to announce it. It is likely to come out prior to completion of the deal but it is subject to the other party wishing for it to come out. Once they want to go public, there is no reason why we can't. It's very much down to them when they want to declare their hand. think this is the best bid for the club. We've had the baton for a period of time and we're handing it over. I want the club to progress and am not able to be there to oversee it, which is regretful, but I still want the best for the club. It's not relief so much. It's tinged with sadness for me because I wanted to stay around for longer but circumstances have dictated that I can't".