Brighton & Hove Albion have been handed a fine and a suspended ban after accepting that they have breached the Premier League's Youth Development Rules.
However, the Seagulls have also been commended for a "proactive and collaborative approach" after disclosing the breach, resulting in "significant mitigation being applied to the sanction."
As a result, Brighton will pay a £20,000 fine, and the league's legal costs, and have also been handed a six-month ban, which is suspended for one year, from registering any academy players currently or previously registered with another club.
Brighton have built a reputation for developing young players and handing them first-team opportunities, as well as unearthing hidden gems courtesy of their highly-rated scouting network.
The Premier League have confirmed that the suspended registrations ban commenced on November 28, with the ban specifically targeting academy players who were registered with any Premier League or EFL club over the last 18 months at Under-nine to Under-18 level.
A statement released by the Premier League has indicated that Brighton self-reported the breach having initially believed they were in compliance with the rules.
Brighton's decision to conduct an internal investigation and fully cooperate with the Premier League was factored into the punishment imposed.
"The League is grateful for the proactive and collaborative approach adopted by the club, which has resulted in significant mitigation being applied to the sanction," a Premier League statement released on their official website read.
"Upon becoming aware of the full circumstances, the club disclosed the breach to the League, conducted an internal investigation and acted in a transparent and cooperative manner at every point."
Brighton currently sit seventh in the Premier League table having made a promising start to life under 31-year-old head coach Fabian Hurzeler, who has steered the Seagulls to six wins and six draws in his opening 15 league games at the helm.
Oliver Thomas
