REPORT: FIFA to open investigation into Boupendza Romania move

FIFA have informed Romanian club Rapid Bucharest that it is launching an investigation into Zamalek’s complaint regarding Aaron Boupendza’s transfer.

According to Romanian outlet Romania Libera, FIFA notified Rapid Bucharest today of its intention to examine the case.

Zamalek, the CAF Super Cup champions, have requested FIFA to initiate disciplinary action against the Gabonese striker, claiming that Boupendza had signed a pre-contract with the club. The Egyptian side argues that this pre-contract holds contractual value.

The report further states that, should FIFA rule in favor of Zamalek, both Rapid Bucharest and Boupendza could be liable to pay the club up to €2.5 million in compensation.

Boupendza is currently unable to play for the Romanian club until FIFA’s ruling is made. Additionally, the player cannot feature for Rapid due to the club’s failure to secure a work permit for him.

The transfer saga of Gabonese striker Aaron Boupendza to Zamalek was one of the longest of the summer window.

Boupendza had signed a pre-contract with Zamalek, and the Egyptian club had even received his international transfer certificate. However, in a sudden turn of events, he changed his mind and opted to join Romanian club Rapid Bucharest instead.