Manchester City have filed an official letter with the Premier League demanding stricter disclosure rules for shareholder loans and related party transactions amid rising financial tension across the division. The club contends that current regulations allow hidden equity injections that can distort competitive balance and undermine profit and sustainability guidelines. City’s legal team has proposed quarterly publication of loan terms interest rates and independent valuations of any debt to equity conversions. Everton Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa were cited as recent examples of opaque financing though no direct allegations of wrongdoing were levelled.
Premier League chief executive Richard Masters confirmed receipt of the proposal and will table the matter at the June annual general meeting. Reaction has split the league. Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish voiced support arguing transparency benefits everyone while Tottenham director Donna Cullen warned against public posturing. Analysts note City themselves face an ongoing arbitration regarding the valuation of regional sponsorships and see the latest move as an attempt to set clear precedents before new spending caps are finalised.
Fan groups have mixed views some praising City’s push for accountability others accusing the champions of hypocrisy. Government officials monitoring football governance reform are expected to reference the dispute when drafting the forthcoming Independent Regulator Bill. With financial scrutiny intensifying City’s intervention ensures shareholder loans will remain a hot topic through the off season.
