Here is what Sales had to say, "With Jeff's [Hanneman] tragic passing and Slayer's eventual hectic touring schedule over the past several months, there has been a bit of mutual 'holding off' on jumping into any new long-term recording commitment, but we would like to clarify the comments that Tom and Kerry made in [a recent] interview.

"It is true that Slayer is currently out of contract, as they delivered their final required album to American Recordings some time ago. Rick Rubin began a new distribution agreement with Universal last year and American/Universal absolutely has made a significant proposal to re-sign the band.

"Both parties had been in substantial negotiation over that proposal at the time of Jeff's passing; and in fairness to everyone, a little space has been given on all sides in terms of closing any new deal.

"We are excited about the possibility of re-signing with Rick Rubin's venture, and are also considering several other options that have been presented since the previous long-term contract with American expired.