The problem with ultimatums is that if you are in the weaker position they are likely to be ignored - as history teaches us.
Let me take you back to 1963/4 when the National League desperately needed a 7th team. The SCB instructed Provincial League champions to move up. Wolves said no and the PL ended up running a pirate operation in 1964.
In 1964 West Ham saved the day, in 2026 it was supposed to be Northampton ....