The writters of Netta Barzilai’s Eurovision winning song “Toy” have been threatened with a lawsuit for plagiarism – over claims it is similar The White Stripes' Seven Nation Army.

The Times of Israel reports Universal Records have written to Doron Medalie and Stav Beger two weeks ago claiming copyright infringement, due to alleged similarities between “Toy” and the White Stripes 2003 hit 'Seven Nation Army'.

Music critics have previously noted about similarities between both songs' basslines.

In their letter, Universal lawyers allege that the similarities in rhythm and harmony constitute copyright infringement.

Responding to the allegations set out in the letter, Mr Medalie said he and Mr Berger were “surprised to receive such a letter and we are taking care of it. I believe the issue will be successfully resolved in the next few weeks to the satisfaction of all sides.”

“It’s not a lawsuit, there’s no court here,” Mr Medalie told the Jerusalem Post. “It’s a letter of clarification, so we’re clarifying.”

Netta’s publicist Ofer Menahem said the Eurovision-winning singer would not be commenting on the incident.

Some Israeli media reports suggest that if the claim is proven in court, it could strip Israel of its win this years and its hosting rights for the 2019 tournament.