It's been revealed today that Hibs have pulled out of a deal to sign Scunthorpe midfielder Funso Ojo.
It looked like a deal was close yesterday, but it turns out the Hibees backed out the deal a few weeks ago.
Ojo had a clause in his contract that could allow him to leave on a free after Scunthorpe were relegated, but due to the transfer windows not lining up, the clause was closed by the time the Scottish window opened.
The Belgian now has a year to see out on his contract, but has handed in a transfer request to try to force the English side's hand.
Speaking to Scunthorpe Live Ojo's agent said:
"A deal was agreed for Funso to join Hibernian on 31 May, but the registration could not be completed for whatever reason before this date.
"Because Scunthorpe said the Scottish transfer window wasn’t opened yet. As it opens on the 11th of June. The clause said he could go on a free transfer. Not transferred and registered.
"We are not speaking with Hibernian but we have to see if there’s other clubs interested and hopefully then the clubs can work out a situation and let the player be happy and progress in his career.
"He tried his best in a Scunthorpe shirt, always. He does not want to disrespect the club.
"Now is the time to find a new challenge and continue his career.
"This is funny, because a transfer can be made months before and the player can be registered six months later. So that’s why they’ve stopped him from a transfer. The clause was because they were relegated.
"The clause was only valid until May 31.
"We agreed a deal, but he was stopped from joining Hibs on a free transfer and now they want a transfer fee for him to leave.
"We did all we could on our side to make the deal happen, but Scunthorpe refused to let him leave.
"That is not fair to him."
Editor's Thoughts:
It's a shame this deal seems to be dead, Hibs were clearly keen to get the player to Easter Road, and he was keen to come.
It's a strange situation for the player to be in, but he now has a year to run on his deal.
He has handed in a transfer request, but his club will be looking to be compensated.
It also remains to be seen if Hibs could go back in for him, but that all depends on the type of fee the English side want.
Ojo won't be short of suitors, having played for PSV Eindhoven and with European experience under his belt.
One to keep an eye on.
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