RORY McArdle today warned the Bradford City takeover must not undo the good work of the Phil Parkinson era if it goes through.

It is understood that potential buyer Gianni Paladini's exclusivity agreement with the club is due to expire today. City may be willing to extend it for a short term if they feel that progress is being made.

The Telegraph & Argus yesterday exclusively revealed that they have also been contacted by other interested parties who were alerted by Paladini's approach becoming public.

But McArdle, the club's newly-crowned player of the year, has struck a note of caution against any new owner trying to change too much too soon.

Similar upheaval following outside intervention has hit Leeds United, among others, and the Northern Ireland international does not want to see a repeat at City.

"I'm sure the two chairmen will have the best interests of the club at heart, as they have always done," said McArdle.

"Without knowing too much detail, I know the fans will probably think about the money (coming in from a takeover) and see it as a good thing.

"But there are a lot of examples out there of people going into clubs and wanting their own way or not being used to the football environment and it can quickly turn. Without naming any clubs in particular, there is always that risk.

"If the takeover happens, then I do really hope it is for all the right reasons. The chairman has been very open and honest in what he's said but it's got to be done the right way."

Joint-chairman Mark Lawn took Paladini for a tour of the training ground earlier this week after the players had gone.

McArdle admitted they know little about the proposed deal "other than what we read in the press". But he feels there is no need for major disruption within the squad – which could do more harm than good.

"There is a strong core at the club now and a lot of good players here," said the defender.

"For someone to come in and in the space of half a season or so, potentially ruin all the hard work put in by the gaffer, the players and the chairmen in the last two or three years, would be an absolute travesty.

"Look at where we are now and what we have done. There's no way we want to see all that go to waste."

McArdle would rather continue a policy of "sensible" progression, along the lines of Swansea, instead of throwing money at it.

He said: "Swansea are a great example of a club who have come through the ranks. They've stabilised each year and look where they are now – they are reaping the rewards.

"Compare that with some of the teams in the Championship who have taken big steps and look at the money they are losing.

"For Bradford to go into that financial trouble, where they have been in previous years, wouldn't be good for the club.

"But that's just my honest opinion. If (the takeover) is a sensible option and everything ticks the boxes, then I'm sure the lads and the fans will be more than happy with it."