Prince Andrew 'trying every move possible' as Duke locked in crunch talks with King Charles over Royal Lodge

Royal author Andrew Lownie claimed Andrew's plan involves "playing things long in the hopes that the situation may change".

This tactic aligns with the Duke's modus operandi, as Lownie explained: "He will try every move possible to avoid the action he's being pushed to take."

The dispute over Royal Lodge has been simmering since September last year, with Andrew having resided there since 2003 after being awarded the property by the Queen Mother.

Andrew's strategy appears to extend beyond the Royal Lodge dispute. The Duke is thought to have set his sights on Frogmore Cottage, the former residence of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. However, his intentions are not for personal use.

A source told The Express: "Andrew won't move into Frogmore but is still trying to wangle it for his family. Eugenie has stayed there on and off since Harry and Meghan left for America, she helped pack up their things."

The duke is understood to want to secure Frogmore Cottage as a full-time home for Princess Eugenie and her family.

This move contradicts King Charles's apparent wish for Andrew to relocate to the property himself.

"Eugenie and Jack's hearts lie in the UK and they need a bigger home for their family," the insider added.

The ongoing dispute over Royal Lodge has raised concerns about its impact on the Royal Family's public image.

Lownie, who is writing a book about the Yorks, expressed uncertainty about the purpose of this battle, telling The Express: "I'm not quite sure what it's meant to achieve because it doesn't present anyone in a particularly good light."

The financial aspects of the situation have also come under scrutiny. Lownie commented on Sarah Ferguson's contributions, saying: "She's renting out those properties, she's getting that income, there is money coming in, so I don't know why this battle is going on."

Despite the pressure, Prince Andrew appears determined to maintain his residence at Royal Lodge.

This stance has created tension with King Charles, who wants his younger brother to downsize to Frogmore Cottage.

The prolonged nature of this dispute suggests a resolution may not be reached in the near future.

The situation has been further complicated by Andrew's attempts to secure Frogmore Cottage for Princess Eugenie.

As the battle continues, questions arise about the long-term implications for royal property management.

The public scrutiny of these internal disputes may potentially impact the monarchy's image.