Southampton have been charged with misconduct by the EFL over the Spygate drama which is still ongoing ahead of the play-off final later this month.
Hull beat Millwall 2-0 in the other playoff semi-final and are scheduled to face the Saints in the final in what is often described as the richest game in football.
How much could Spygate cost Middlesbrough?
However, with a tribunal set to rule on allegations of spying by a Southampton staff member on or before Tuesday, many are unsure if the final will go ahead. Dr Rob Wilson spoke via Compare.Bet about how Spygate could lead to a loss of up to £200M for Middlesbrough.
“There is still one game remaining against Hull City. Had Middlesbrough been victorious against Southampton, they would have needed to win that final match. In that scenario, we would be discussing the usual extraordinary figures.
“Promotion to the Premier League is frequently described as the richest prize in football due to broadcast income, sponsorship uplifts, commercial growth, and the various other advantages that accompany it.
"The minimum amount available is £120M. This figure increases to £200M when including parachute payments, should a club be relegated immediately. It is important to clarify that Middlesbrough has not literally lost 120 million pounds. Football does not work that way. Promotion is an opportunity rather than a guaranteed rite of passage.
“What they have lost is the chance to compete for a financial transformation of the football club. They will be rightfully frustrated, even though they were outplayed for much of the match last night.
“If Middlesbrough believe they were denied a fair sporting contest, then many lawyers will likely become involved. The implications are significant. This does not just involve direct revenue; it affects recruitment, player value, sponsorship, and the entire direction of the club. In short, they missed the opportunity to win a match that would have guaranteed £120M of Premier League income.”
The EFL is working on the basis that the final will go ahead as planned but has said "supporters should be aware that the outcome of disciplinary proceedings may yet result in changes to the fixture".
The hearing into Southampton’s spying charges will be heard on or before Tuesday 19th May in a decision that could change the tragectory of both Middlesbrough and Southampton for years to come.