Watford owner Laurence Bassini claims the takeover of the club by the Pozzo family is off.

Bassini stated yesterday that the deal was agreed and all he was waiting for was the “proof of funds” from the family who run Italian side Udinese and Spanish club Granada.

Sources had claimed the Watford owner was being pressurised into leaving the Hertfordshire club by their bondholders.

But Bassini was adamant he was leaving on his own accord and stated on several occasions he expected to receive around £12m for the club.

An hour ago Bassini contacted the Watford Observer and said: “They don’t have the money [I want for the takeover] so I’m not doing the deal.

“They didn’t provide the proof of funds and it is not transparent enough so that is that.

“They have so many partners but they don’t have the money.

“The deal is definitely off. They do not have the money. What can I do?”