SWINDON Town remain poised to sign Redditch United striker Jermaine Hylton but could face a Football Association investigation over their approach for the player.
The Advertiser, who revealed that Hylton would be signing for the club once the transfer window opens, understands that Town will complete the move for the Redditch frontman, who is not on a contract at Redditch, next week when he will sign a two-and-a-half year deal.
However, while Swindon have made a formal seven-day notice of approach for the 21-year-old, meaning they are unable to speak to Hylton until that period has expired, the Advertiser also understands the Evo-Stik Southern League outfit are extremely unhappy with the way the County Ground club have gone about their courting of the player and intend to approach the FA.
Valley Stadium chairman Chris Swan told the Advertiser that Town submitted their formal seven-day notice of approach on New Year's Day.
He said: “We have received an approach from Swindon on January 1 to speak to Jermaine Hylton. They will be allowed to speak to him on January 8.”
However, Swindon chairman Lee Power appeared to admit in an interview yesterday that the club have spoken to the player.
Power told Link Sport yesterday: “Non-league is different to the Football League and you have to put in a seven-day approach in, which we put in to make our in interest clear.
“Contrary to false reports and people jumping the gun, he hasn’t signed yet. We’ve put the seven-day approach in and we’re hoping to complete the deal next week.”
However, in the same interview, Power revealed that the club have spoken to the former Kidderminster Harriers youth player.
The Town chairman was asked if he felt that a deal could be hijacked and said: “We’ve spoken to the lad, he’s very keen to come, and we’re very keen to have him so hopefully no.”
It is understood that the converted winger, who was attracting interest from Premier League side Southampton, Championship outfit Birmingham City and Town’s League One rivals Fleetwood Town, MK Dons and Crewe Alexandra, has agreed a two-and-a-half year deal from Swindon which is set to be signed once the seven-day notice of approach expires.
While Redditch are not going to stand in the player’s way in making the move to the County Ground, the Advertiser understands that they are preparing a case to send to the FA regarding Swindon's move.
Swindon were contacted by the Advertiser for a response but declined the opportunity to do so today.
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