Dundalk supporters have begun the process to aid their club amid the threat of being unable to see out the League of Ireland season, with the aim of fundraising €100,000 to help pay salaries.
Last night the Lilywhites confirmed through owner Brian Ainscough that the club is "experiencing financial difficulties" after the failure to secure additional investment.
Ainscough admitted funding the club for the remainder of the year was the immediate target and was not guaranteed.
The Oriel Park side are believed to have considerable legacy debt, although the amount has yet to be confirmed.
The 1903, an official Dundalk supporter group, this morning appealed to fans to contribute to a GoFundMe campaign to help the cause.
It read: "With the release of the statement from Brian Ainscough and the real concerns that we may not be able to raise the money to complete the 2024 season, we wanted to reach out to our supporters and give them the opportunity to donate to a financial fund that will be used to assist the club in these serious financial difficulties
"We would urge all supporters to please donate what you can, it would be really appreciated
"The money raised will be used to support the club through these serious financial issues. Surplus funds will go towards long-term development of the club
"Now is the time for all of us to come together, it is time to step up. Our club is in serious trouble, your club needs you."
A €100,000 target was set and drew a quick response from fans.
Ainscough said he is seeking any option to get the club back on a solid footing, including offloading it to another party.
He stated: "I am actively seeking investment and I am exploring all possibilities about the ownership of the club to ensure that happens.
"I will continue to speak to any interested parties and I remain fully positive that we can secure the injection of cash that we need to keep us going."
With one wage period already owed and two more months to come in the campaign, the need for investment is critical for the Lilywhites.
Jon Daly's side are away to Waterford FC this Friday before another match on the road versus Sligo Rovers the following week.
Their next home game is 24 September against Bohemians.
Dundalk sit bottom of the table, one point behind Drogheda United. Even if they do avoid automatic relegation, a play-off against a First Division outfit will be ahead for the ninth place side.
Their inability to finish out the league campaign would have a major impact on the Premier Division table.
Should Dundalk drop out of the league, their results would likely be expunged.
Derry City would then take over as leaders ahead of the current side at the summit Shelbourne.
Despite the perilous situation, that scenario seems unlikely, with the hope their club’s ownership, supporters and FAI can help find a solution in the coming weeks.
However the long-term outlook continues to look bleak without new investment.
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