Chinese FA warns clubs over Aubameyang ‘bidding war’

CHINA’S FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION (CFA) warned yesterday that it would punish teams who flout its transfer rules, following reports two clubs are battling to sign striker PierreEmerick Aubameyang (pix).

Chinese Super League (CSL) champions Guangzhou Evergrande are reportedly prepared to pay at least €70 million (RM335m) for the Borussia Dortmund attacker, trumping an offer by rivals Beijing Guoan.

The CFA last year introduced a 100% tax on incoming foreign transfers in an effort to encourage Chinese clubs to invest on local youth players, but media reports suggest both clubs are prepared to either incur the penalty or find a way to circumvent it.

Evergrande denied they were pursuing Aubameyang – without explicitly naming him – but that was not before the CFA made plain its anger.

The CFA too did not name the striker but made a clear reference to the 28-yearold and Evergrande and Guoan.

“The news of two clubs suspected of engaging in a bidding war on a transfer has caused social concern,” it said in a statement, adding that it had asked them to explain.

“In the next step of the investigation, if any violations are found, the Chinese FA will handle this seriously according to law and regulation.”

Stressing that the 100% surcharge was applicable in the current winter transfer window and in the year ahead, the CFA warned: “We will watch closely every club’s transfer movement in the new season and increase scrutiny.

“The Chinese FA will seriously investigate and will not tolerate any violation or any loophole-exploiting behaviour.” – AFP NOTTINGHAM FOREST have appointed Aitor Karanka as their new manager on a two-and-ahalf-year contract, the English Championship club announced yesterday. The Spaniard succeeds Mark Warbur-