FIFA BAN WATFORD OVER SAMUEL KALU TRANSFER

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World football governing body FIFA have officially sanctioned an international transfer ban on English Championship side Watford FC over the signing of Nigerian winger, Samuel Kalu.

Watford reportedly failed to pay solidarity compensation entitlements to Kalu’s former youth team in Nigeria, Megamu Football Academy Club following his move from Bordeaux to the English club in January 2022.

Megamu claims they helped in the development of Kalu and were therefore due the payment.

FIFA received a complaint from the Aba-based club on the matter and gave the English side a 45-day deadline to complete the payment.

After reviewing the case again, FIFA has now officially slammed Watford with a worldwide ban effective 19th July 2023, pending when the case will be resolved by the two teams.

A copy of a letter signed by Julien Deux, head of FIFA judicial bodies (adjudicatory) reads in parts, Watford has still not complied with its financial obligations towards Megamu Football Academy Club.

“In this regard, we wish to inform the parties that a ban from registering new players internationally has been implemented by FIFA as of July 19, 2023.

“Moreover, and in accordance with the aforementioned decision, the Football Association (in copy) is requested to immediately implement on the respondent the Club Watford FC, if not done yet, a ban from registering new players at the national level.”

According to the Watford Observer, the issue is an administrative matter and is close to being resolved.