‘Tottenham to win £15million from Ratcliffe – they have a strong case’
Tottenham could be awarded up to £15million in court following a sponsorship dispute with Manchester United shareholders INEOS.
The petrochemicals company is spearheaded by United’s co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, and first partnered with Spurs back in 2020.
Back in February, the agreement between the pair ended early as Ratcliffe continued his cost-cutting measures that have been so controversial at Old Trafford.
However, court records show Tottenham filed a commercial claim on 12 June, hinting at a contractual dispute between the North London club and the Man United shareholders.
Everton’s former chief Keith Wyness – who served as CEO at Goodison Park between 2004 and 2009 and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – insists there is evidence to suggest that Spurs have a strong case.
Tottenham demand damages from INEOS
Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Wyness revealed that Tottenham have asked for over £11m in damages, but they could potentially receive £15m.
Wyness added that he expects this dispute to be settled outside of court, as it would suit both parties.
He told Football Insider‘s Inside Track podcast: “I think it’s £11m plus and they’ve asked for the judge to decide about interest and possible other further relief in terms of any damages caused.
“From my understanding, INEOS claim that they had the right to withdraw from the contract, under any normal contract that may have been the case. However, given the track record that INEOS has had in sports, it would point to the fact that Spurs may have a case.
“We’ve got to see how it comes out, but I think there was about £5m in terms of fees that were unpaid, plus, they could be claiming for an extra year to try and find a replacement sponsor. So £11m would certainly be a starting point.
“Normally, if you were filing a claim like that, you’d start high and expect to get maybe £5m-£6m. But again, if the judge finds INEOS did breach the contract for the wrong reasons, then it could be up to £15m.
“I would expect it to be settled out of court. I think the day before it actually gets to court, they’ll find a way to try and work that one out. That’s what I’d be trying to do if I were in both their shoes.”
Tottenham hit by Eberechi Eze blow
Meanwhile, Tottenham have been hit with a blow in their pursuit of Crystal Palace winger Eberechi Eze, sources have told Football Insider.
Eze has a £68million release clause in his contract, and sources say that Palace are keen to hold out for that figure.
Spurs, who have been long-term admirers of the England international, had been hoping that they would be able to agree on a cheaper deal with the Eagles.
The 27-year-old is keen to play at the highest level, and the North London side can offer him Champions League football after their Europa League triumph last season.
For more Tottenham and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.