Kotoko settles $240,000 FIFA fine to escape ban

Kumasi Asante Kotoko has confirmed payment of a $240,000 fine slapped on the club for player transfer irregularities.

Kotoko has been involved in a tussle with Tunisia-based side Esperance over the signing of striker, Emmanuel Clottey.

They were to pay $180,000 for the player’s transfer, $45,000 for accrued interest and $15, 000 for flouting FIFA’s ruling with a deadline of May 17.

Public Relations Officer of Kotoko, Kennedy Boakye Ansah, told JoyNews on Wednesday, April 29, that club chairman, Dr Kwame Kyei, felt the need to “shoulder the responsibility” at a time of financial and other difficulties posed by the coronavirus pandemic.

Kotoko had to negotiate with Esperance to write off the accrued interest and paid $30,000 because they had to pay Kotoko $150,000 for the transfer of Kwame Bonsu.

A $15,000 payment was also made to the world football governing body.

“We had to go through great lengths to get the matter sorted, but at least we are excited that after the back and forth we have been able to get the issue sorted,” Mr Ansah stated.

The matter had irked the life patron of the club, Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who received a report from the club chairman detailing activities under his tenure.

Manhyia is expected to announce the way forward for the club after reviewing the performance of the current administration.