Joey Barton's return to Burnley could be in jeopardy after the midfielder was charged with betting offences by the FA.
Burnley announced earlier this week that they had agreed terms to resign Barton until the end of the season following his release by Rangers.
The 34-year-old was due to officially rejoin the Clarets at the start of the January transfer window, but he was today alleged to have placed 1,260 bets on football matches between March 2006 and May 2016.
With Barton yet to sign his contract at Turf Moor, the charge could see Burnley pull out of the deal, although Barton has until January 5 to respond.
"Burnley Football Club have today been made aware of FA charges brought against Joey Barton relating to historic betting on football matches," read a statement on Burnley's official website.
"The club will be discussing the matter with Joey and his legal representatives and will be making no further comment on the matter at this time."
Barton helped the Clarets to promotion from the Championship last season, being voted the club's player of the year.
Barney Corkhill
