Asmir Judgment close

Pompey’s £1m dispute with Spurs over Asmir Begovic could be settled before Christmas.

A Premier League arbitration hearing is to sit in judgement on the long-running argument between the clubs.

And that may bring an end to a wrangle which has dragged on since February 2010.

Spurs claim the Blues owe them a £1m sell-on fee following Begovic’s sale to Stoke. It is alleged the clause was brokered on Pompey’s behalf by Daniel Azougy.

This was after Begovic pulled out of a proposed double White Hart Lane swoop which included Younes Kaboul.

Instead, the Bosnia and Herzegovina keeper joined Stoke for £3.25m – with Spurs insisting they are entitled to £1m as a result.

Pompey have disputed the claims.

Earlier this year, legal submissions were made by both clubs.

Now the case will be heard by the Premier League this side of Christmas.

Blues chief executive David Lampitt said: ‘There is a legal process ongoing.

‘However, we expect the case to be heard before Christmas.

‘That is all I can say on the subject for legal reasons.’

The Premier League arbitration hearing will consist of a three-man panel.

They will attempt to mediate between the clubs in order to reach a satisfactory conclusion.

In October 2009, an arbitration hearing found in favour of Kevin Keegan in his claim for constructive dismissal against Newcastle.

The former England boss was awarded £1.5m in legal costs, on top of a £2m settlement.