A statement from the American family seeking to buy Carlisle United has thrown down the gauntlet over the club’s debt.

The Piataks’ first public comments on the situation made it clear that a deal cannot happen until the debt situation is dealt with.

United have long been attempting to resolve the matter with lenders Purepay, who are owed about £2.7m.

Florida based business family the Piataks, first revealed to be in talks with the Blues by the News & Star, made their first public remarks on their interest in the club this week.

They spoke of an “exciting” opportunity but stressed: “While we want to emphasise that these discussions are in advanced stages, there remains one significant hurdle, resolution of the Purepay debt.

“Despite the current club shareholders’ and directors’ best efforts over the past year to resolve the debt issue, it remains open at this time.

“The Purepay debt must be resolved for this transaction to move forward.

“Once resolved, we believe this could mark a significant milestone in the club’s journey and an extraordinary opportunity for the club and one we are excited about.”

United’s Purepay debt is a legacy of their loans from Philip Day’s Edinburgh Woollen Mill from 2017-19.

Carlisle tabled fresh proposals over repayment of the debt in August.

The Piataks, in their statement, said they were “thrilled” by the prospect of “elevating the club to new heights” and looking forward to meeting fans at a supporters’ trust members’ meeting on September 24.

In a statement via the UK company they recently set up – Castle Sports Group – they also pledged to provide “long-term investment” to safeguard the Blues’ financial security as well as for the club to “thrive” in a number of ways.

The Piatak family, headed by Florida-based Magellan Transport Logistics owner/CEO Tom Piatak, also emphasised the importance of community in their proposed investment in the club, which they confirmed relates to a “change of control” at the top of the Brunton Park club.

They also said a takeover will lead to “exciting new possibilities” ranging from the signing of players, improving facilities and developing the matchday experience for fans.

The statement did not include details of specific plans or proposed levels of investment, nor the Piataks’ original motivation for getting involved with the Cumbrian club.

The Jacksonville family say discussions remain “highly sensitive” and the finer details are subject to change as talks progress.

“Your enthusiasm, passion and unwavering support have been the driving force behind the club’s success, we have seen it first-hand ourselves already from the stand and terrace,” the statement to supporters added.