Newport transfer ban an 'administration dispute'

Newport County finished 22nd in League Two last season, just above the relegation places

Newport County have been placed under a transfer ban but the League Two club say the situation is "a minor administration dispute" with world governing body Fifa.

The issue is understood to stem from a compensation fee that Newport believes has already been paid to another English Football League (EFL) club for an academy player.

The Exiles were placed on Fifa's registration ban list last Friday and despite the new transfer window opening on Sunday, have been unable to proceed with any new player transactions.

A Newport County spokesperson said: "It is nothing for supporters to concern themselves with. It's just a minor administration dispute with Fifa which will be settled shortly.

"It relates to a spurious compensation fee for an academy player that Fifa claimed we owed to another club.

"However, the compensation fee was paid months ago and the club in question has confirmed receipt.

"It is an extremely frustrating process dealing with Fifa, one which we know several other EFL clubs are experiencing regarding compensation claims, but the matter will be rectified shortly."

Although Newport are confident the situation will be resolved swiftly, it means new manager David Hughes has been delayed in any plans to strengthen his squad for next season.