Chelsea are reportedly in talks with the Premier League to reach a financial settlement, aiming to avoid a potential points deduction that could significantly harm their league standing.
The discussions are focused on past issues dating back to the ownership of Roman Abramovich, not the Premier League’s profit and sustainability regulations for the 2023-24 season. These concerns were raised by Chelsea’s current owners after their takeover in May 2022.
The investigation revolves around undisclosed payments linked to transfers, notably those of Willian and Samuel Eto’o from Anzhi Makhachkala in 2013, as well as Eden Hazard’s move from Lille in 2012.
Such payments could typically result in serious penalties, including points deductions, but Chelsea’s owners, Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, contend that any breaches occurred prior to their ownership and should not impact the club’s current standing.
Chelsea had already withheld £150 million from their £2.5 billion acquisition, following revelations of financial irregularities during Abramovich’s reign. The club believes these payments might have remained undetected had they not disclosed them during their due diligence.
The club is optimistic that a resolution can be reached by March. In July 2023, Chelsea settled a similar case with UEFA, paying an £8.6 million fine. The Premier League allows for “sanction agreements,” which can involve points deductions, but Chelsea is reportedly pushing for a financial penalty instead.
While Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters has indicated the investigation is nearing completion, the potential outcome could cause frustration among rival clubs, particularly those like Everton and Nottingham Forest, who have faced points deductions for financial breaches.
This has the potential to spark controversy, as Forest, now competing with Chelsea for European qualification, could see the Blues’ settlement as unfair.
Negotiations continue, but Chelsea remains hopeful of avoiding a points deduction and moving past this issue from the Abramovich era.
