Larne's Inver Park ground is owned by the local council

It was thought that a number of local businessmen had been considering an attempt to take control at Inver Park.

The club is presently raising the money to pay an �8,000 fine imposed following a player registration mistake.

"No official approach has been made and the majority of shareholders are unaware of any offer to purchase their shares," said a club statement.

"We would always welcome any individuals who wish to invest money in the club, especially in these difficult times with a fine to pay to the IFA and speculation over the club's future in the new invitational league also rife.

"If there are credible business people who are interested in investing in the club, an official approach would be listened to favourably.

"The management committee of the club have a duty of care to protect the interests of all involved and will happily meet any potential investors," added the statement.

Supermarket firm Tesco have expressed an interest in acquiring the club's Inver Park ground which is owned by the local borough council.