Birkirkara FC confirmed reports that they had received a lucrative offer for one of their players from an individual falsely impersonating a sporting director of a club in Germany. The player had also been approached directly and presented with an offer that appeared difficult to refuse.

In a statement, the club said “Over the past days, the Club and the player cooperated closely in an effort to fulfil the player’s dream of securing a move to a stronger league with significantly improved personal terms.”

“However, yesterday evening the Club received a suspicious document which immediately raised concerns among its officials. Subsequent communications led to the Club being asked to pay a so-called temporary “transfer tax,” with assurances that the amount would be refunded.”

“Thanks to the diligence of the Club’s legal team and the support of ECA lawyers, it was quickly established that the proposal was fraudulent and that no further action should be taken.”

“The Club then made direct contact with the German club in question, who responded promptly and professionally. They immediately confirmed that the offer was not genuine and that a police investigation was already underway after the same club had received similar reports from other clubs and agencies.”

“The Club would like to express its gratitude to all those involved, particularly its legal team, the ECA, and the representatives of the German club for their assistance and cooperation in safeguarding the Club’s interests.”