Dein concerned by Cole affair

David Dein is concerned at Chelsea's explanation of the ongoing Ashley Cole saga.

Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein has claimed there is 'a huge credibility gap' between Chelsea's version of events and newspaper reports over the alleged illegal approach for full-back Ashley Cole.

Fresh evidence emerged on Sunday about the reported meeting between Cole and his representative Jonathan Barnett, and Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon, manager Jose Mourinho and agent Pini Zahavi at a London hotel.

Dein has now intimated that he feels there is compelling evidence that the meeting did take place - although Arsenal have still to lodge an official complaint with the Premier League.

"When the News of the World broke the story last week, I spoke to Peter Kenyon, Pini Zahavi and Jonathan Barnett. They were all in denial," Dein told the News of the World.

"However, from the evidence I have seen so far, there is a huge credibility gap."

For their part, the Premier League have confirmed that they are still in contact with both clubs over the incident and are trying to establish what course of action, if any, to take.

Premier League rules state that clubs are not allowed to 'tap up' players under contract at other clubs, and Aston Villa were found guilty and reprimanded for a similar charge over then Southampton striker James Beattie earlier in the season.

However, there have been calls for Chelsea to face a much stiffer penalty - including a points penalty - if their clandestine approach for Cole is proved.

"The board of the Premier League have been discussing this matter with Chelsea and Arsenal for the past seven days in order to establish an appropriate course of action given the scope and intention of the rules governing this area," a Premier League statement read.

"Today, we received further information from the News of the World which we will study for any facts that might be relevant to our deliberations.

"Further discussions will take place between the Premier League board and both clubs next week."