EFL minnows Barrow are reportedly offering their players FOUR times more money to LOSE to Chelsea than if they record a shock Carabao Cup win.
And the stunning revelation has called into question the integrity of the competition.
League Two Barrow were handed a dream draw away at Stamford Bridge in round three of the domestic cup after beating Derby on penalties in their previous tie.
But now according to , the match has raised concerns.
The newspaper claims Barrow's bonus schedule shows the players would receive £250 if they somehow secured a victory in West London on September 24.
However, they are set to bank a whopping £1,000 each if they lose the match.
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This therefore could imply a significant additional reward for defeat - and the possibility of incentivising underperformance, even if last season's runners-up Chelsea are the heavy favourites.
The EFL declined to comment but it is thought the organisation spoke to the Bluebirds to clarify an explanation - even though the bizarre bonuses do not appear to break any specific regulations.
SunSport also understands the bonus sheet contained errors and has since been rectified - with the club wanting to reward their players for playing a top-tier team with an appearance fee, rather than offering a 'bonus' for losing.
Bonuses must be agreed between the club and its players before being submitted to the EFL before the start of the season - but the EFL do not have jurisdiction over them.
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It is reported that Barrow's players will receive £250 each for any wins in rounds one to five of the Carabao Cup.
Even winning the final at Wembley would only bank the players an extra £1,000.
However, the deal also offers £1,000 if they lose to a Premier League club from round three onwards - and £750 for defeat to a Championship side.
In the FA Cup, things are far simpler.
Barrow have agreed to pay out £400 for a round-one win, then £800 for round two.
By round three and beyond, that figure increases to £2,625 per win per player.
Again, defeat to a Premier League team would ensure a £1,000 bonus - and £750 if a Championship club knock them out.
Barrow are currently third in League Two after an impressive start to the campaign.
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Their three wins and a draw from five matches has Stephen Clemence's side on ten points - two behind leaders Doncaster.
SunSport has contacted Barrow for comment.