https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/...derby-20362498

Cardiff City have set the record straight by responding to reports linking Derby's would-be owner with an alleged attempted buyout of the Bluebirds.

Cardiff City have expressed shock at claims linking Derby County's prospective new owner Erik Alonso with an attempted buyout of the Bluebirds.

The 29-year-old hopes to take full control of Derby, pending Football League approval.

But ahead of the takeover Alonso told the Spanish media “We had been talking to various clubs for a while," specifically citing Cardiff and Sheffield Wednesday as alternative options.

The Bluebirds say they did receive a call from Alonso, but insist it went little further than that.

Cardiff asked for a non-disclosure agreement and proof of funds, but say neither were forthcoming.

An NDA is a legally binding contract that establishes confidentiality and is common practice on major business deals.

The Bluebirds often get calls from interested parties, but insist Vincent Tan still feels there is a project to see through at Wales' capital city club. As such conversations do not move forward unless they believe a potential new owner would be right for the Bluebirds and is genuine.

Responding to the fresh reports about Alonso, Cardiff chairman Mehmet Dalman said: "I'm shocked by what has come out, to be honest, and wonder why the comments have been made.

"His definition of discussions is clearly entirely different to ours.

"An initial contact was made and we asked for an NDA and full disclosure of funds. None of that was forthcoming.

"It takes an awful lot more than an initial phone call to enter into proper or meaningful conversations with us."

Reports say Alonso has reached an agreement with Derby and values Championship clubs "between £70 million and £120m."