Leeds United's relegation rivals Everton have been referred to an independent commission by the Premier League regarding an alleged breach of Financial Fair Play rules for the period ending with the 2021/22 season.
Leeds and Burnley raised concerns over Everton's handling of £371.8million worth of losses across the last three years at the end of last season, with The Times reporting that a joint letter was submitted by both clubs before the final round of top-flight matches last season.
The concern was surrounding Everton's losses which were well beyond the £105m figure allowed by the Premier League over a three-year spell. No action was taken at the end of last term, but now the Toffees have officially been referred to an independent commission over the alleged breach in relation to the competition's Profitability & Sustainability rules.
Read more: Police close Leeds United stadium Elland Road following security threat
A statement from the Premier League read: "In accordance with Premier League Rule W.82.1, the Premier League confirms that it has today referred an alleged breach of the League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules by Everton Football Club to a Commission under Premier League Rule W.3.4. The assessment period for which it is alleged that the Club is in breach is the period ending Season 2021/22.
"Commissions are independent of the Premier League and member clubs. The members of the Commission will be appointed by the independent Chair of the Premier League Judicial Panel, in accordance with Premier League Rules W.19, W.20 and W.26.
"The proceedings before the Commission will, in accordance with Premier League Rule W.82, be confidential and heard in private. Under Premier League Rule W.82.2, the Commission’s final award will be published on the Premier League’s website. The League will be making no further comment until that time."
Any club deemed to have broken Profitability and Sustainability rules can be fined or deducted points. Everton are yet to comment but last year the club denied that they had done anything wrong.
“We have worked closely with the Premier League to make sure we are compliant,” a spokesman said. “We are comfortable that we have complied with the rules. External auditors have told us what we can and cannot claim against the pandemic. If clubs want to take legal action that’s their decision.”
READ NEXT:
Javi Gracia delivers Jack Harrison verdict as Leeds United faith repaid after Marsch frustration
Leeds United's Leo Hjelde a Rotherham United 'revelation' as Premier League prediction made
Tactical tinkering, width and individuals - How Javi Gracia is making his mark at Leeds United
Leeds United facing Illan Meslier inevitability as summer transfer strength in the balance
Junior Firpo's Leeds United turnaround has helped Javi Gracia plug persistent problem
