Premier League clubs have approved changes to the rules governing commercial transactions, despite opposition from Manchester City, Newcastle United, Nottingham Forest, and Aston Villa.
The decision was reached during a meeting in London on Friday, where clubs took less than 30 minutes to finalize the vote. A total of 16 clubs voted in favor, with four against. Approval required at least 14 votes, a threshold that was comfortably met.
Manchester City and Aston Villa had reportedly written to other clubs ahead of the meeting, seeking support to oppose the changes.
The rule adjustments pertain to Associated Party Transactions (APTs), regulations designed to prevent clubs from securing undue financial advantages through sponsorship or commercial deals with entities connected to their ownership, particularly if those deals exceed “fair market value.”
The changes come in the wake of an independent panel ruling parts of the Premier League’s previous APT rules unlawful earlier this year, following legal action initiated by Manchester City.
In a statement, the Premier League clarified that the modifications involve “integrating the assessment of shareholder loans” and removing certain amendments introduced to the APT rules earlier this year.
“The purpose of the APT rules is to ensure clubs cannot gain unfair advantages from commercial deals or cost reductions with associated parties that are not at fair market value,” the league explained.
During the meeting, representatives from Chelsea and Manchester United reportedly urged clubs to back the revisions, emphasizing their importance. In contrast, Manchester City’s representative declined to address the gathering.
SOURCE: BBC
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