Chelsea discover transfer ban fate as hearing date set for appeal
Chelsea will discover their transfer ban fate in the coming weeks, as the Court of Arbitration for Sport has revealed the date to hear the club's appeal against FIFA.
The authority’s disciplinary and appeal committees claimed that Chelsea violated 150 rules protecting minors from trafficking, in cases involving around 70 players.
Chelsea transfer ban appeal court date set as Frank Lampard to learn Stamford Bridge fate
The club were also claimed to have violated rules against third-party influence on players.
But, Chelsea have denied any wrongdoing.
The Blues began their appeal process back in April, after being hit with the transfer embargo in March.
The club had requested that the transfer ban was frozen until after the appeals process, but Fifa denied the request.
Chelsea: Frank Lampard could make new signings in January if the transfer ban is lifted (Image: GETTY Images)
Chelsea lodged its appeal after the club believed Fifa’s investigation was flawed.
In its appeal, Chelsea said: “The Fifa disciplinary committee wrongly found that the Premier League Games Programme (PLGP) constituted organised football.
“Such football at the foundation phase [under-nine to under-11] and youth development phase [under-12 to under-16] of the PLGP is developmental friendly training football, formally arranged and structured, with a wide array of variable features.”
But, Fifa denied that it had misinterpreted the PLGP, and maintains that a transfer ban should stand.
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Chelsea: Mateo Kovacic is the only player to sign for Chelsea this summer, as he was on loan already (Image: GETTY Images)
“The committee has no doubt that the PLGP matches referred to in the appealed decision were organised under the auspices of the Football Association.
“According to the explanations provided by [head of youth development] Mr Neil Bath, a trial for overseas players would consist of three to four visits that can last up to three weeks each if they occurred during school holidays.
“Therefore, it could take up to 12 weeks for a player to finalise a trial with Chelsea.”
If Chelsea’s appeal is accepted at CAS, it means that Frank Lampard will be able to make new additions to his squad in the January transfer window.