County have won four of their last five games to haul themselves clear of the relegation mire.

But Palmer is worried about the implications of a possible merger with Sale Sharks.

"It's difficult because I have got players here I want to sign," he told the Manchester Evening News.

"I have been assured that I will be the manager next season, but until the takeover happens, or doesn't happen, I can't sign the players I want.

"The length of the contract is important. We feel we have worked particularly hard here, and we are looking for a lengthy contract.

"A year's contract - and I don't want to cut my nose off to spite my face - is not something I would be happy with.

"The new people have assured me that as soon as the takeover happens they will thrash things out with me.

"We have to work to a long-term plan. I said when I came in that it would take a long time, that we had good kids here, and we would have to be patient."