President-elect Donald Trump’s team has investigated claims that Boris Epshteyn, a key adviser in his transition, sought payments from individuals seeking positions in the new administration.

According to the New York Times, the review, led by campaign lawyer David Warrington, followed concerns raised by some of Mr Trump’s trusted associates.

They alleged that Mr Epshteyn approached at least two individuals, including Scott Bessent, recently nominated for treasury secretary, requesting monthly payments to advocate for their appointments.

The inquiry found that Mr Epshteyn had met with Mr Bessent earlier this year, proposing fees of $30,000 to $40,000 a month to promote him within Mr Trump’s inner circle, including at Mar-a-Lago.

Mr Bessent reportedly declined the offer but stayed on good terms with Mr Epshteyn to avoid conflict.

The review also cited a defence contractor who was allegedly asked to pay $100,000 monthly for support during the transition period.

The New York Times also said that according to the review, Mr Epshteyn portrayed himself as indispensable to the contractor’s chances of securing a role.

Both individuals are said to have rejected the offers.

Mr Epshteyn denied the allegations in a statement on Monday, saying, “These claims are false and defamatory. They will not distract us from our work to Make America Great Again.”