LEICESTER’S charges for breaching FFP rules are set to drag on beyond the start of the new season.

The promoted Foxes could be docked points twice on their Prem return — and it is likely to rumble on beyond the August kick-off.

2

Leicester were charged with breaking Prem spending limits in March.

And the EFL intend to hit them with a separate charge for overspending on their way to winning the Championship.

The 2016 Prem champions pushed for the first case to be heard this summer so they know any points handicap by the start of the season.

But SunSport understands the case will not be fast-tracked — with the independent commission, which  decides the hearing date, still to be set up.

Leicester are managerless after Enzo Maresca left for Chelsea but the game’s rulers look set to offer little sympathy.

Prem and EFL officials told SunSport Leicester are to blame for a delay due to their aggressive approach to fighting the charges, which involved launching legal action against both of the leagues.

The Foxes are understood to have changed their strategy repeatedly last season in response to their fluctuating form.

Having co-operated with the Prem when Maresca’s side were running away with the Championship, the club then sought to delay matters when poor results put promotion at risk.

BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS

The Premier League charges relate to their top-flight seasons between 2020 and 2023 when they lost £215.3m, more than £110m over the limit.

Based on punishments handed out to Nottingham Forest and Everton, the Foxes face a significant points decision — possibly as many as 12 points.

They are also being investigated by the EFL for possible breaches in the Championship and are under a transfer embargo.

The Premier League said they would take up the EFL’s case and impose any penalties next season.

Leicester and the ­Premier League were approached for comment.

2

Premier League sides deducted points and others at risk

Nottingham Forest

Deducted four points during the 2023-24 season for breaching Premier League spending limit by £34.563m. Failed in their appeal with decision upheld.

Everton

Initial 10-point deduction for 2021-22 Premier League breaches reduced to six points on appeal. Were deducted a further two points later in the 2023-24 season. Appealed, but since withdrawn following Prem survival.

Sheffield United

Hit with a two-point deduction for their finances during the 2022-23 EFL season. Will begin the 2024-25 Championship season on -2 points following their relegation from the Prem.

OTHERS WHO COULD FACE PUNISHMENT…

Manchester City

Etihad club emphatically denies the 115 allegations laid against them in February 2023. The lengthy Commission case has been scheduled to start in October or November but a final decision is not expected until March or April 2025.

Chelsea

Blues chiefs flagged up illicit payments made to agents and others during the Roman Abramovich era. Fined £8.6m by Uefa but still to be formally charged by the Prem despite an ongoing investigation.

Leicester

Foxes breached Prem PSR loss limits last season but did not have to report their 2022-23 accounts until this month because of their relegation. That puts the timetable back and means that they will probably face a Prem points deduction for the 2024-25 season following their return to the top flight.

Everton (again)

The Toffees are again at risk of breaking PSR rules and are in a race against time to raise funds and balance the books. Not only could that lead to another charge but also administration. That would lead to an automatic nine-point deduction for the 2024/25 season.