Storrie's involvement at Portsmouth goes back to 1990
Portsmouth's takeover saga has taken a new twist as it was revealed a group led by chief executive Peter Storrie is in negotiations to buy the club.
Pompey accepted a bid from Dubai tycoon Sulaiman Al Fahim in May but when discussions dragged on, doubts emerged over his financial backing.
A club statement said the new group "is very positive about the talks and are confident a deal can be completed."
The statement added that Al Fahim could still partner the new consortium.
Portsmouth's preparations for the new season have been severely hampered by the uncertainty over Al Fahim's proposed takeover, meaning manager Paul Hart has had to rely on free transfers and loan signings to bolster his squad.
Speaking after his side had lost 1-0 at Birmingham on Wednesday night, Hart voiced his frustration at the situation, saying it is imperative for the good of the club that its future be resolved soon.
"We're all keeping our fingers crossed, that there might be a successful takeover bid," said Hart. "I think it is imminent. I think we need to get this sorted out. That is pretty obvious for everyone."
The defeat at St Andrews means Portsmouth have lost their first two Premier League matches and Hart is aware of the need to strengthen his squad before the transfer window closes on 1 September if they are to have a realistic chance of top-flight survival.
"We've got targets and it doesn't necessarily mean we are spending money," said Hart. "Will there be money if there is a takeover? I've not had those detailed talks yet."
On Sunday, goalkeeper David James said that the uncertainty surrounding the future of the club and the sale of a number of key players had taken its toll on the current squad.
The club were forced to sell England internationals Glen Johnson and Peter Crouch this summer to reduce a reported debt of £44m.
Portsmouth's statement said that "no further comment will be made by the club until any purchase is complete."
Current owner Alexandre Gaydamak put the club up for sale in December 2008, just seven months after Pompey won the FA Cup.
Al Fahim, the figurehead for the Abu Dhabi United Group's successful takeover of Manchester City, had his bid accepted nearly three months ago.
The property tycoon was named chairman of the club last month after passing the Premier League's fit and proper person test.
However, Storrie expressed his frustration last week that a deal had still not been concluded.
He told a Portsmouth fans' forum: "There's been enough talk, if he (Al Fahim) is going to take over the club it is about time he should do so.
"The situation now is between the trustees and solicitors of the owner and the solicitors and advisors of the potential buyer."
His side lost 1-0 at home to Fulham on the opening day of the Premier League season, a game watched by Al Fahim.
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