Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore says the planned transfer bung inquiry may involve football's world authorities and even the police.
He warned that its remit may go beyond Football Association or Premier League rules, up to a global level.
"The inquiry intends to refer cases of wrongdoing that fall outside FA rules to Uefa, Fifa or the appropriate statutory body," he said.
When asked if that could include the police, he said "Yes".
"It will also come out with recommendations as to how we can fight these 'reputation' issues that are damaging us"
The inquiry is expected to be chaired by a prominent QC but an announcement about precisely who that will be has been delayed while the Premier League checks the timescale of availability of the eight candidates.
Scudamore insisted it was being carried out as a clear-the-air exercise rather than one looking to catch anyone out.
"I don't believe this is an endemic issue," he added.
"The inquiry will enable the chair to make a statement as to how good the clubs are.
"It will also come out with recommendations as to how we can improve our business practices and fight all these 'reputation' issues that are damaging us."
The inquiry was called in the aftermath of remarks by Luton manager Mike Newell about illegal payments in relation to transfer dealings.