Crusaders have been placed under a transfer embargo by the Irish Football Association [IFA] after a breach of the Northern Ireland Football League [NIFL] rules and regulations.

Despite the north Belfast club having announced the signings of Graham Kelly, Aaron Reid, Thomas Maguire and Owen Wardell, it is understood that the quartet have not been registered with the IFA.

Declan Caddell's side struggled in the Irish Premiership last season but retained their top-flight status after beating Annagh United in the promotion/relegation play-off.

It is unclear which Premiership rule or regulation that Crusaders have breached, but NIFL confirmed it was "working closely" with the club.

"In line with the Premiership Rules, we are working closely with the club to resolve an outstanding matter," a NIFL spokesperson said.

"While this process is ongoing, the club is currently subject to a transfer embargo."

Crusaders did not wish to offer a comment.

The Crues are due to begin their Premiership campaign with a trip to Solitude to face rivals Cliftonville on 7 August before welcoming Ballymena United to Seaview the following weekend.