Following the breakdown of Algerian international Saïd Benrahma’s intended transfer to the French club, Lyon accused West Ham of demonstrating a “profound lack of respect”.
According to Lyon, the Premier League team failed to follow through on the procedures required by FIFA, the world football governing body, in order for the deal to close on Thursday, the last day of the January transfer window.
“Following this incomprehensible behaviour… the international transfer certificate could not be requested before closing time,” Lyon stated in a statement.
“Olympique Lyonnais deeply regrets this situation and this decision, demonstrating a profound lack of respect on the part of West Ham towards the institution and the player.”
“The club reserves the right to initiate all appropriate procedures necessary to validate the transaction at a later date, and to hold West Ham responsible if necessary.”
While acknowledging in an email to Reuters that the transaction was not finalised in time, West Ham chose not to respond to Lyon’s remarks regarding the reasons the trade had failed.
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