Shejsonfield Wednesday have warned of a potential three-window transfer embargo as players and some staff were not paid their wages on time for May, reports the Sheffield Star.

Sheffield Wednesday players have yet again been left without timely payment of their May wages, which could precipitate a transfer embargo extending over three windows if the issue isn’t resolved promptly. The Owls squad and certain staff members experienced either non-payment or partial payment on Friday.

This is not the first instance of financial irregularity at the club, mirroring a similar occurrence in March, marking the second failure to pay on time in recent months. With sanctions looming from the EFL, the club risks hitting the critical 30-day default period that would prevent them from engaging in transfer or loan dealings.

In response, Sheffield Wednesday has communicated with the affected individuals via letter, offering assurances that missed payments are expected to be sorted by the coming Monday. The clarity regarding whether the club will avoid sanctions hinges on the exact timing of these payments.

The Sheffield Star disclosed parts of this letter : “We anticipate outstanding payments will be made in full during the course of this Monday and sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused.” It also emphasizing the club’s readiness to provide necessary support to anyone facing financial strain because of the delay.

“We understand that such delays create financial pressure and want to reassure our staff that the club is here to support you and ensure that no one suffers any financial hardship… If you are facing any immediate financial difficulties as a result of this delay, please don’t hesitate to contact your Line Manager or Department Head, who will aid the access of emergency funding we have in place.”, reports the Mirror.

The club is currently experiencing a turbulent period, despite making progress on the pitch. The Owls finished 12th in the Championship under the highly-rated manager Danny Rohl, having pulled off an impressive escape to maintain their second-ti

However, protests against the ownership of Thai businessman Dejphon Chansiri have been escalating over the past six months. A disastrous fans’ forum in January, where he told supporters that the club’s future was none of their concern, sparked widespread action.

This escalated in March when wages went unpaid, and the latest news is likely to stir up more discontent. “We are once again appalled to hear reports that employees of Sheffield Wednesday Football Club, have reportedly not been paid again,” stated the club’s Supporters’ Trust.

“If these reports are accurate, this is simply unacceptable. We demand that the club immediately provides a clear and transparent explanation of the situation. Silence and ambiguity are no longer tolerable.

“We reiterate our firm belief that Dejphon Chansiri must sell the club without further delay. His continued ownership is proving catastrophic for Sheffield Wednesday and everyone connected with it.”

Some supporters are now urging the EFL to intervene, fearing that the Owls could follow in the footsteps of Reading who were hit with transfer embargoes, points deductions and further trouble before finally being rescued from the abyss caused by Dai Yongge.

In a further blow to fans, it has emerged that Chansiri recently turned down two takeover bids from a US-based consortium for Hillsborough. The consortium, based in Florida, is believed to include professional athletes among its investors.