Cole may give evidence to 'tapping' inquiry

Ashley Cole could be asked to give evidence at an investigation by the Premier League into allegations Chelsea made an illegal approach for the Arsenal defender.

The Premier League have written to both clubs for their observations on reports the England player was ’tapped up’. Once those responses are returned, the governing body will then decide how to proceed, with a formal commission likely to be set up.

While agreement over a specific date for such a hearing to start would be likely to take some time, once the process is under way, the commission could then seek representation from all parties, and may ask Cole for his comments, albeit in the form of a written statement.

“We have written to both clubs and are awaiting their observations before deciding what action to take next,” a Premier League spokesman said.

“We have the power to call people in, we will look at it and gather evidence, and our lawyers will construct that [evidence] in conjunction with Arsenal and Chelsea. We are adjudicating, rather than prosecuting.”

Reports in the News of The World claimed Cole – currently in negotiations with Arsenal over a new contract – met with Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon and manager Jose Mourinho at a London hotel to discuss a potential move.

It was also claimed agent Pini Zahavi, who has a close relationship with Chelsea, and Cole’s own agent Jonathan Barnett were present.

Chelsea have promised to fully comply with the Premier League’s investigation which has followed the delivery of “further information” from the newspaper concerning the allegations.

Mourinho, though, has insisted his focus must remain on footballing matters as the team enters a crucial phase of the season.

But if a meeting did take place it would be in breach of Premier League rule K3, which governs approaches to players under contract.

There are a range of disciplinary procedures open to the governing body should they find Chelsea guilty of speaking to Cole behind Arsenal’s back, including fines as well as a points deduction or even expulsion from the league.

Aston Villa were recently reprimanded by the Premier League after Southampton complained about an approach to James Beattie earlier in the season, while Liverpool were fined for making an illegal move when a commission found them guilty over the signing of Christian Ziege from Middlesbrough in 2000.

Liverpool had to pay £20,000 (€29,000), while the player was fined £10,000 (€14,500); Middlesbrough sought £7million compensation, but eventually settled out of court.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger, meanwhile, remains confident Cole will still sign an improved deal – the current one is set to run until 2007 – giving the England full-back a wage hike in recognition of his huge progress over the past couple of years.

And Arsenal midfielder Robert Pires has urged his team-mate to remain in north London.

“Everybody here is sure Arsenal will once again be competitive next season with the young players we have at the club – and Ashley is one of those players,” the Frenchman told the London Evening Standard.

“He has been at Arsenal for ever. He is a very attacking left-back and I think he is enjoying his football because at Arsenal he plays in an offensive team. I am not sure he will get the same pleasure at Chelsea, even though they are doing so well at the moment.

“I have built a fantastic playing relationship with Ashley. We play together so well – we could do it with our eyes shut. But you have to respect the decision of the player. Everybody has that right.”