Spurs ready to act in 'tap' row

14 April 2012

Tottenham were today set to make a formal complaint to the Premier League over Chelsea's approach for Frank Arnesen.

The move represents a further deterioration in the relationship between the clubs, who have been locked in a bitter compensation dispute for three weeks.

Only a last-ditch peace offering from Chelsea will stop Spurs taking formal action, which could lead to the Premiership champions starting the new season with docked points.

Chelsea first declared an interest in Arnesen last month when they were accused of "tapping up" by Spurs after allegedly talking to the Dane without permsission.

Spurs, however, made clear they would resist taking action over an alleged breach of Premier League rules providing Chelsea paid an appropriate level of damages.

They initially wanted midfielder Scott Parker in return for their sporting director and also considered deals involving Mikael Forsell and Glen Johnson. But after Parker moved to Newcastle in a £6.5million deal last week, it became clear that only a cash settlement would suffice.

Spurs are understood to have demanded around £5m but Chelsea's valuation is closer to £3m. With Spurs setting a deadline of noon today, directors were involved in frantic telephone conversations this morning.

The row further intensified this week when Arnesen, who has been suspended from his £600,000-a-year post by Spurs, was photographed on Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich's yacht. Chelsea claim the meeting was purely social but will find it difficult to head off another inquiry.

Chelsea say they will continue to hold talks with Spurs in an effort to find a settlement eventhough they are set to face an inquiry.

Spurs ready to act in 'tap' row

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