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EFL to discuss whether Jorge Mendes' role at Wolves breaks third-party ownership rules

Jorge Mendes
Image: Jorge Mendes works closely with Fosun International, which owns and runs Wolves

The EFL Board will discuss on Thursday whether Wolves' ownership structure breaks the league's strict rules on third-party ownership, Sky Sports News understands.

Wolves, who currently sit six points clear at the top of the Sky Bet Championship, are adamant they have not broken any rules.

The EFL have told Sky Sports News that they are aware of the concerns of some other Championship clubs and added that they are presently dealing with those concerns.

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While the issue is not specifically on the agenda for Thursday's board meeting, Sky Sports News understands it will play a key part in the discussions.

It is understood the concerns that have been put to the EFL centre on super agent, Jorge Mendes.

Wolves insist Mendes - who represents Jose Mourinho and Cristiano Ronaldo, amongst a huge portfolio of big football names - works closely with Fosun International, which owns and runs the club. Mendes also advised Fosun on the purchase of Wolves in 2016.

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Highlights from the Sky Bet Championship as Fulham faced Wolves.

Some of Wolves' competitors believe Mendes' role represents a conflict of interest, arguing he works for both the club and a number of its employees.

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Head coach Nuno Espírito Santo, midfielder Ruben Neve, forward Diogo Jota and winger Ivan Cavaleiro are among those represented by Mendes.

One senior official from another Championship club told Sky Sports News: "If one person advises the club, and represents and controls half the players in a squad, and the manager, you have to question whether their influence is too great."

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Coady crucial to Wolves

Among all the Portuguese stars at Wolves, Conor Coady could hold the key to their season.

The FA, which regulates the activities of agents in England, told Sky Sports News: "The FA has strict regulations in place for all football activities involving Intermediaries.

"We obtained confirmation from Wolves and all relevant parties, including Mr. Mendes, regarding the sale of the club in 2016 and their ongoing compliance with The FA's Regulations on working with Intermediaries."

Wolves say they are comfortable the club has broken no FA or EFL rules, and that they have always been transparent about Mendes's role. They have had no contact from either of the governing bodies suggesting anything is wrong.

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