The Premier League has launched an investigation into claims by former player Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink that players received unauthorised cash bonuses.
Hasselbaink says Blues players received £100,000 for reaching the Champions League last four in 2003/04 rather than the £50,000 written into their deals.
The Premier League says it’s “duty bound” to investigate the claims.
A Premier League spokesman said: “We’ve received assurances from Chelsea that there is no case to answer regarding alleged extra payments to players. We have no reason to doubt these assurances.
“However, given recent comments by Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink we are duty bound to investigate those comments and assess their factual basis.”
On being informed of the investigation, the club released a statement once again denying any wrong-doing.
“Chelsea has already made it publicly clear on two occasions that it has not made any payments to players in breach of Football Association or Premier League regulations. The club stands by those statements totally.
“Moreover, two weeks ago Chelsea invited the Premier League to look at any relevant documentation on this issue before any investigation was considered. The Premier League has not taken up that invitation.
“Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has made false statements that potentially bring the game, and Chelsea, into disrepute. These should be investigated fully, and not Chelsea.”
