Chelsea Banned From Signings During Next Two Transfer Windows

Chelsea Sanctioned For Getting Gael  Kakuta To Break Lens Contract

MANU BAN TO FOLLOW? In London, Matt Dickinson reports Manchester United could also "be hit by a transfer ban" after French club Le Havre confirmed that they are "pursuing a 'very similar' case to that won by Lens against Chelsea." Le Havre insists that ManU MF Paul Pogba was "under contract to them when he left for United this summer," and the club claims to "have evidence that inducements were offered to Pogba's parents and say that details will be included in their submission to FIFA" (LONDON TIMES, 9/4). But a ManU spokesperson said the allegations are "complete nonsense," adding "everything has been done within UEFA guidelines" (Manchester GUARDIAN, 9/4).

MAKING A STAND: In London, James Lawton writes the transfer ban can be "seen as a significant move towards cleaning up a market in youth players that has been increasingly shaped by the ruthless behaviour of the most powerful clubs" (London INDEPENDENT, 9/4). Also in London, Patrick Barclay writes FIFA's "determination to make contracts mean something, especially in relation to young players and the clubs who spend time and money developing them, is now clear and that can only be helpful, especially if it is followed by a new formula guaranteeing a player's original club suitable compensation for having educated him." The ban could be an "important factor in creating a more level playing field across the game, as UEFA says it wants to do" (LONDON TIMES, 9/4).

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