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 Football Association for breaching transfer approach rules after allegedly making six illegal approaches for Sunderland players. The FA confirmed the misconduct case in a statement dated 10 September 2025, outlining that the club had breached FA Rule C88–C96.

The allegations involve approaches for Isla Burdon-Watson, Isla Hepburn, Josie Dobson, Lily Williamson, Mollie Frewd and Sofia Clark. In each move 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 17 September 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...