Southampton have reported Derby County to the FA for the alleged “tapping-up” of Kenwyne Jones. In a letter of complaint sent last night, the South Coast club have said that Derby made an approach for the forward, who scored 16 goals in the Coca-Cola Championship last season, without permission. The FA is expected to consider a possible breach of the rules and could fine Derby, who were promoted to the Barclays Premier League last season.

Derby are believed to have made an inquiry about Jones, 22, last week, which was rejected. They faxed an offer for the player a few days later. Southampton are alleged to have then received a phone call at the weekend from the agent of the player, inquiring about the interest from Derby. On Sunday, there was mention of an offer in a newspaper report, but Southampton have said that the story did not come from them.

Southampton’s anger was conveyed by phone yesterday to Trevor Birch, who was appointed Derby chief executive in June. Birch is an experienced football executive. A former Liverpool player, he became widely known for his insolvency skills in his role as chief executive of Chelsea, where he oversaw the takeover by Roman Abramovich in 2003, and Leeds United, whom he helped avoid to administration and oversaw the takeover by a consortium led by Gerald Krasner. Derby declined to comment last night.