Financially troubled Royal AM faces potential liquidation or a sale this week, which could mark the end of the club’s existence in professional football.

According to Durban’s Ilanga newspaper, the curator overseeing Royal AM’s affairs will submit a report to the court recommending either liquidation or a sale. The paper suggests a buyer is already waiting in the wings.

“On Monday (today), the curator will submit in court that Royal AM has to be sold, and if they don’t find a buyer, they will liquidate the club,” a source told Ilanga. “Furthermore, the curator will recommend that the PSL not expel Royal AM immediately, but rather wait until a buyer is found.”

The source added, “We have found a buyer, and they had a meeting on Friday.” The same source also confirmed that Royal AM players received their January salaries, paid by the curator.

However, club president Shauwn Mkhize is reportedly fighting to retain control. “Shauwn is fighting back to reclaim the club and prevent liquidation or a sale,” the source said. “She is determined to save the club she bought for her son, Andile Mpisane.”

Ultimately, the decision rests with the court, based on the curator’s findings.

This situation has prompted the PSL to convene a Board of Governors meeting on Wednesday. Representatives from all 32 clubs in the Betway Premiership and Motsepe Foundation Championship will be present. The PSL will decide whether Royal AM will be allowed or not to play their remaining Betway Premiership matches.

Ilanga reports that several PSL clubs want Royal AM expelled, claiming the club has embarrassed the league and its sponsors.

Royal AM’s troubles stem from the South African Reserve Service (SARS) seizing club owner Shauwn Mkhize’s assets due to alleged unpaid taxes of nearly R40 million. The asset seizure and frozen accounts have prevented the club from paying its players, with December salaries only paid in January. The PSL has also suspended monthly grant payments to the club, as headline sponsor Betway is not receiving adequate exposure.

Royal AM last played on 29 December, losing 3-1 to TS Galaxy. They currently sit at the bottom of the Betway Premiership table with eight points from 11 matches.