If its essentially a done deal, and only formalities are in the way, cant he give Hendry the go ahead to get the deal done? If the Tribune doesn't want to take the risk, then no he can't. And the Tribune might not budge on it...they're taking on risk for very little possible benefit to them. I'd imagine since the Trib is currently in bankruptcy court, they're probably not allowed to take on the extra long term salary as debt.