Everton could be forced into payout after latest twist in £370m row – pundit
Noel Whelan has claimed Everton could be forced to compensate Burnley if it is proven they have inflated their Covid losses.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, called for the Premier League to take their time to properly investigate allegations of financial breaches.
Everton have posted combined losses of over £370m across the last three years, with £170m of that figure attributed to lost income because of the pandemic – a much higher figure than has been reported across clubs of a similar stature.
According to The Times (23 May), Leeds United and Burnley have demanded the Premier League hands over copies of any evidence it has collected about Everton’s finances after accusing the Merseysiders of severe rule breaches.
Current financial fair play rules state that clubs can lose no more than £105m over three seasons.
Whelan suggested Everton face “real consequences” if they cannot prove their innocence.
“This is something that needs to be looked into,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“If there are these grumblings and speculation about the finances, then why not have a full investigation and find the facts?
“It will take a bit of time, it won’t happen overnight. But it’s important that it isn’t swept under the carpet.
“I don’t think it’s going to affect Everton’s place in the Premier League. But if they’re guilty then I expect real consequences.
“Everton are adamant the losses are organic, but they need to prove it. They may well have to pay Burnley for their troubles.
Everton secured their Premier League status with a 3-2 win against Crystal Palace on 19 May.
Burnley dropped into the Championship after defeat against Newcastle on Sunday (22 May).
In other news, pundit claims Everton could sell Dele Alli for £8m as ‘lucky’ transfer claim issued.