Report: Tottenham transfer is under investigation for potential rule breach

The FA appears to be cracking down on a number of issues of late, and Tottenham Hotspur could now be in the firing line after it has been alleged that the club may have broken regulations with its use of agents in the transfer of Jermain Defoe in 2008.

Defoe left Spurs in the January transfer window of 2008 to join Portsmouth in a £7.5m deal, but would return a year later when Harry Redknapp left Pompey to take over at the North London club.

The former striker enjoyed two prolific spells with the Lilywhites, scoring 140 goals in 361 appearances for Spurs over the years (Transfermarkt).

Since retiring from playing, Defoe has been involved with Tottenham in a coaching capacity, continuing his long affiliation with his former club.

Spurs under investigation for 2008 Defoe transfer

However, a new report from The Times has shed light on an issue from the original sale of Defoe to Portsmouth, and it seems that unlicensed agents may have been used by multiple parties.

It is alleged that Defoe, Redknapp, and Spurs chairman, Daniel Levy – all may have used “an unlicensed agent during the negotiations.”

Mitchell Thomas, the agent in question, was thought to be a “central figure” in the deal, but was “named by the FA” as someone without the proper licensing to operate as an agent.

In addition, Levy also “enlisted the services of Stuart Peters” who, despite being properly licensed, worked without a “representation contract” in place, which is legally required by the FA’s rulings.

The case was initially reviewed 15 years ago by an independent arbitration panel, but no action was taken at the time. The FA was not involved in that hearing, but it is thought that “new evidence” could lead to a further review of the situation.

Independent experts have told The Times that this is an “extremely serious matter” and that “heavy sanctions” could await Spurs if they are found to be in breach of regulations. The list of punishments includes a transfer ban, a points deduction, or even relegation.

Neither Tottenham Hotspur nor Portsmouth have commented on the matter at this stage.

Spurs Web Opinion

Well, this doesn’t sound good, does it? Just another day in the life of a Tottenham fan, but this situation could be a very messy one indeed. I really hope this gets cleared up soon, as we do not need another issue like this hanging over the club.