Sources: Powerful group conspiring with ‘Big Six’, Karren Brady & co. to derail historic plot
There is opposition to an independent football regulator from within the controversial European Research Group, sources have told Football Insider.
The proposed regulator has generated rare cross-party support since the Department For Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) outlined its remit in a White Paper last Wedensday (23 February).
But the Conservative Party’s libertarian wing, for whom many there are many standard-bearers within the European Research Group, oppose government intervention in football.
It is, however, understood that DCMS is confident that the policy proposal will become law despite resistance from those at the ideological margins.
Football Insider revealed on Thursday (2 February) that the regulator will have a far more streamlined staff than the 200-strong workforce that has been reported elsewhere.
While the government sees the proposed agency as a guaranteed vote winner, they are also keen to avoid accusations of overspending in its formation.
The regulator, if passed through Parliament, will have the power to prevent clubs from joining breakaway leagues, impose a new financial distribution system, and introduce a new owners’ and directors’ test.
A relaxation of the FA’s points-based entry requirements for signings from overseas is also on the cards, which will delight Premier League clubs who feel their recruitment pool has been squeezed by the post-Brexit visa system.
But there is disquiet among top-flight clubs about most of the regulator’s powers, which they believe will stifle foreign investment in the game.
Man United, Man City Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham are all opposed to the proposal, although their association with the European Super League plot means they will carry out their protestations in private.
The likes of David Sullivan and Karen Brady from West Ham, Crystal Palace’s Steve Parish and Leeds United’ Angus Kinnear have all come out against the independent regulator.
In other news, Newcastle United agree deal to hire Man City recruitment expert Paul McLaren.