The Division One club, which is �30m debt, failed to pay the players in August after bankers blocked the release of funds.

PFA chief executive Mark Maguire revealed further talks would be held with the club and Derby player representative Warren Barton if the problem is not resolved.

He said: "I have spoken to the club and Warren and hopefully the matter can be resolved in the next two days and before the weekend.

"We are not in a situation like Bradford. At Derby the bank are holding back the money and there has been a delay in paying players' wages.

"Clearly that is a concern and Warren, acting on behalf of the players, wants advice and guidance.

"We should know on Friday what the situation is."

The Rams' board is considering two rival takeover offers, with John Kirkland and one-time vice-chairman Peter Gadsby up against Stuart Webb and local businessman Charles Clowes.

And the on-going talks have meant the club has been able to rectify their current financial crisis.

Manager John Gregory has already slashed the club's wage bill but the issue is so serious that Gregory had to pay out �2,000 from his own pocket for a recent hotel bill for the team.

Player exodus

It is understood the players and staff were told about the wage problem on Friday - just 24 hours before Saturday's 2-0 win over Stoke.

And the delay in wages being paid has led to one unnamed player deciding to leave the club.

According to BBC Radio Derby, a Rams player has already served notice on the club.

On Wednesday, the club acted to quash fans' fears of a further player exodus.

The club reported on its official website: "Negotiations affecting the future of Derby are continuing. Clearly these negotiations need to be of a confidential nature at this stage.

"We thank fans for your patience and continued terrific support and can assure you that all departments at the club continue to function normally in the lead-up to the game against Burnley."