The Magpies are dealing with an FA charge after transfers involving the Sunderland women’s team
09:08, 28 Oct 2025Updated 10:17, 28 Oct 2025
Former Newcastle United Women’s manager Becky Langley at St James’ Park
Newcastle United have been hit by an FA charge for illegal transfer activity over rule break storm.
It is alleged that United’s womens team – who lie under the club’s footballing umbrella – made six illegal approaches to rivals Sunderland in their quest to sign first-team stars.
The FA confirmed the misconduct case in a statement dated 10 September 2025, outlining that the club had breached FA Rule C88–C96.
It is alleged Newcastle: “Did not give to the Club Secretary of Sunderland AFC seven days written notice of its intention to approach the player.”
Newcastle had until September 17, 2025 to respond to the charges.
The charge comes just a week after Newcastle parted company with Becky Langley as first-team boss of the Championship side. Newcastle said in a statement then: “Becky has played a significant role in the club’s rise since being appointed in 2019, achieving back-to-back promotions to take the team from the fourth tier to Women’s Super League 2.
“She was at the helm as Newcastle United Women turned fully professional in 2023, becoming the first third-tier side to do so, and led the team during its first ever matches at St. James’ Park.
“After ending their first season in WSL2 with a fifth-place finish, Newcastle United Women currently sit ninth in the table after six matches of the current campaign.
“Everyone at Newcastle United thanks Becky sincerely for her service to the club and wishes her the very best in her future career. An interim coaching structure will be put in place while a successor is appointed.”
Sunderland and United are yet to comment.
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