The Premier League is probing claims from West Ham accusing Sunderland of 'tapping-up' the Senegal striker.
On the move: Both Sunderland and Everton are interested in Ba
A formal complaint was lodged on Wednesday over an alleged illegal approach and a Premier League spokesman confirmed: 'We have received a letter from West Ham United. We will look into their complaint to see if there is a case to answer.'
Section K of the Premier League rulebook forbids clubs from directly or indirectly contacting a player contracted to another club without permission.
Sources close to Sunderland were quick to distance themselves from the allegations last night, claiming they have no interest in the former Hoffenheim player.
Case for the defence: Sunderland deny any wrongdoing
A spokesman said: 'Sunderland AFC is fully aware of the Premier League regulations pertaining to player recruitment. If we are interested in any player currently under contract with another club we will speak directly to that club in line with the regulations.'
However, Everton, who came close to signing Ba in January will not be deterred by the furore and are ready to explore the possibility of a deal with David Moyes desperate to add more firepower to his squad next season.
Meanwhile, West Ham defensive coach Wally Downes has left the club after his contract expired.
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Source: Daily Mail
Source: Daily Mail