Tottenham Hotspur 'face possible points deduction over FA rule breach'

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly facing serious allegations over breaching transfer rules by using an unlicensed agent to facilitate the departure of Jermain Defoe to Portsmouth in 2008.

At the time, the Football Association did not take any action regarding the allegations; however, it is now understood that the governing body is willing to conduct a review of the claims.

In the past, violations of FA agent rules have led to major consequences such as point deductions, transfer bans and suspensions for club officials.

The Times has now disclosed information from an investigation that uncovered Tottenham's violation of agent regulations during Defoe's transfer to Portsmouth, where Mitchell Thomas, an unlicensed agent, played a significant role in the deal.

The report adds that at the time, FA rules prohibited the involvement of unlicensed agents, and the case went before an independent arbitration panel, but no actions were taken regarding the matter during that period.

Luton Town were docked 10 points for breaching agent regulation in the same year.

It is understood that Harry Redknapp, who was the club's manager at the time, along with chairman Daniel Levy and Defoe, all dealt with Thomas during the transfer deal in 2008.

Both Spurs and Portsmouth have chosen not to comment on the issue at present, while the FA is believed to be willing to consider reopening the investigation.