Carlisle United are yet to respond to reports of Turkish interest in a takeover of the club.

A report this morning claimed a consortium from the country had "tabled a bid" to buy the club.

Very little information - including details on the identities of those behind the reported interest - has so far emerged.

Carlisle could not be reached for comment this morning. The News & Star has also invited supporters' trust CUOSC to respond to the report.

Claims of a "bid", tweeted by Football Insider reporter Pete O'Rourke, come at a time the Blues are already in advanced takeover talks with American businessman Tom Piatak.

The Florida-based logistics businessman is due to meet fans at a meeting staged by supporters' trust CUOSC later this month.

The claimed Turkish interest, which is also said by the BBC to have "north-east" connections, has entered the public domain just days after CUOSC confirmed details of that members' meeting with potential investors, due to be held on Sunday, September 24 at the Halston hotel in Carlisle.

The Blues have previously said they were in discussions with "credible" parties who were interested in taking over the club.

While neither United nor CUOSC have publicly named the Piataks, the Americans are widely believed to be the people referred to, the News & Star having revealed their interest in the club last month.

News and Star: Tom Piatak, centre left, and son Tom at Brunton Park last monthTom Piatak, centre left, and son Tom at Brunton Park last month (Image: Barbara Abbott)

Tom Piatak and his son, also Tom, attended United's home game against Exeter City last month while manager Paul Simpson has said he has met them.

There have so far been no suggestion of similar discussions with a Turkish consortium.

Carlisle have not commented directly on the status of talks with the Piataks, including whether any exclusivity agreement could be in play at this advanced stage of discussions.

The club and trust have also referred to the importance of resolving debt negotiations with Purepay Retail Limited before any takeover/investment deal can progress.

United are hoping to agree terms on a repayment plan on the £2.7m debt situation with Purepay.