Premier League clubs generated £3.3 billion in tax revenue and contributed £7.6 billion to the economy during the 2016-17 season according to analysis published today. The clubs are likely to use the findings to push for new immigration arrangements that give them freedom to recruit players from all over the world after Brexit.

The 20 clubs’ contribution to the economy has grown significantly since the last study of its kind on the 2013-14 season, with the tax yield increasing by almost 50 per cent from £2.4 billion to £3.3 billion and estimated figure for Gross Value Added economic activity more than doubling from £3.4 billion to £7.6 billion. Of the £3.3 billion generated in tax revenues, £1.1 billion is estimated to come from the players.