Top clubs may have to curb spending

BIG-SPENDING clubs could face curbs on how much they pay for players’ wages and transfers under proposals being considered by the game’s leaders and European sports ministers.

The move would hit clubs with mega-rich owners such as Chelsea as they would not be allowed to spend more than they earn in order to steal a march on their rivals.

The idea has been mooted as part of a new Europe-wide licensing system after the possibility of a salary cap for clubs was abandoned.