Newcastle United Women have been charged with misconduct by the Football Association after allegedly making illegal approaches to six junior players contracted to their second-tier rivals, Sunderland.

The case will now be heard by an independent regulatory commission, with Newcastle potentially facing a heavy fine if found guilty.

The FA has stated the allegations involve the Sunderland players Isla Burdon-Watson, Isla Hepburn, Josie Dobson, Lily Williamson, Mollie Frewd and Sofia Clark. In each case it is claimed that Newcastle breached the governing body’s transfer rules because they “did not give to the club secretary of Sunderland AFC seven days written notice of its intention to approach the player”.

The six involved are understood to be under-16 players. Burdon-Watson and Clark are believed to have joined Newcastle’s youth system.

Newcastle were given until 6pm on 17 September to respond to the charges. It is understood they have suggested the matter relates to an administrative misunderstanding.

Last Monday Newcastle sacked their manager, Becky Langley, announcing that news just as José Mourinho was about to address the media the night before the men’s team faced Benfica in the Champions League. It is understood Langley’s dismissal was unrelated to the FA charges and...