Reports circulating this week have suggested that West Ham United could be in serious trouble over unpaid fees related to Nikola Vlasic’s transfer from CSKA Moscow.
Some even claimed the club could face a transfer ban as a result.
But according to ExWHUEmployee, speaking on The West Ham Way Podcast, those rumours have been firmly shut down.
£7.2 Million Owed but Already Accounted For
Ex confirmed that West Ham still owe CSKA Moscow £7.2 million for Vlasic.
However, he stated clearly that this amount has already been set aside and has been for some time.
The issue isn’t a financial one, it’s political.
“I have spoken with the club regarding the Vlasic fee situation, and I’ve been advised that we still owe £7.2m to CSKA Moscow for the player,” Ex said.
“However, this money has been set aside and has been there for some time.”
Sanctions Preventing Payment
Due to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, financial sanctions have made it impossible for West Ham to transfer the funds to CSKA Moscow.
There is currently no legal mechanism for the payment to go through, and this is the sole reason for the delay.
“Sanctions are preventing the money to be transferred, so there is currently no mechanism or likely to be for some time that West Ham can pay the money,” Ex explained.
Club Not Facing Transfer Ban
Despite alarming headlines suggesting disciplinary action or a potential transfer ban, Ex made it clear that West Ham are not at risk.
The club has done everything required on its end, and the situation is being managed responsibly.
“There are no financial concerns surrounding the matter, including any reported transfer bans. That is not true,” Ex stated.
Vlasic Thriving in Serie A?
Since leaving West Ham, Nikola Vlasic has settled well at Torino in Italy.
In his first twice full seasons, he featured in 34 and 33 Serie A matches respectively, scoring five and three goals.
He also provided multiple assists each season and has developed into a key figure in Torino’s midfield.
In summary, while the financial side of Vlasic’s transfer remains technically unsettled due to global sanctions, West Ham are not in any trouble.
The money is there, the club is acting within the rules, and claims of a looming crisis appear to be wide of the mark, at least according to The West Ham Way.
