Ryan’s become a Portuguese Man of War over move!
Ryan Gauld looks set to be heading for a messy exit from his club in Portugal.
The Farense President claimed he has previously signed a deal for next season – just as he’s on the verge of leaving.
The 25-year-old former Sporting Lisbon star has been offered £41,000-a-week by MLS Vancouver Whitecaps, who are just one of many clubs keen to land Gauld.
The former Dundee United man was widely praised for his displays last season in the Portuguese top flight.
Despite Gauld’s efforts, Farense were relegated, and his contract with the Algarve outfit is due to expire this week.
However, Farense President, Joao Rodrigues, claims Gauld has signed a deal for next season, and that if he leaves the club, they will be due a bumper transfer fee.
But representatives of Gauld are believed to be very confident he’s free to sign for another club for nothing because he hasn’t signed any new deal, and would be prepared to seek legal redress if necessary.
Rodrigues said: “Ryan Gauld is a Farense player.
“He has a signed contract, so Farense will do everything to defend its rights.
“We have complied with Ryan, as we have always done, and he with us.
“Our intention is to keep him, and extend the contract for more years.”
Gauld signed a twoyear contract with Farense in 2019, with an option for a third year, after a successful loan spell.
But his departure seems set to be acrimonious.
Clark Robertson says he rejected a return to Aberdeen because he has unfinished business in England.
The ex-dons centrehalf held talks with Stephen Glass, and was impressed by the new Pittodrie manager.
However, he accepted a two-year deal from League One side, Portsmouth, following a persuasive presentation by boss, Danny Cowley.
Robertson left Rotherham after relegation from the Championship for the second time.
The 27-year-old explained: “Getting the chance to speak to Aberdeen was really good.
“At the time they came in, I went to meet the new manager at Cormack Park.
“Having spoken to Stephen Glass, the style they’re going to play will be very attractive.
“I was excited by that. I definitely see Aberdeen having a good season, so it was a difficult one for me.
“I could have come home, and been closer to family, but I want to keep testing myself in England.
“I’d never rule out a return to Scotland further down the line. But I’ve much more to offer before I come up the road.
“I missed half of last season with injury, so didn’t get to play in the league as much as I’d have liked.”