REPORTS: GFA Imposes Transfer Ban on Hearts of Oak Over $70,000 Debt to New Edubiase

Accra Hearts of Oak have been hit with a transfer ban by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) over a lingering $70,000 debt owed to fellow Ghanaian club, New Edubiase United.

The ban, which takes immediate effect, was imposed following a ruling by the GFA Players’ Status Committee. The decision mandates Hearts of Oak to settle an outstanding balance of $50,000 for the transfer of midfielder Salim Adams, in addition to a $20,000 payment—representing 40 percent of an onward transfer fee clause.

The financial obligation stems from Adams’ move abroad, where he was expected to secure a lucrative deal with Major League Soccer side FC Cincinnati. Reports suggested Hearts stood to earn close to a million dollars from the move. However, the deal ultimately fell through, and the player returned to Ghana.

New Edubiase, who developed and transferred Adams to Hearts of Oak, claim they are to receive the full agreed fee as well as their due share from the attempted onward transfer.

With this sanction, Hearts of Oak are currently barred from registering new players, a significant setback as the club prepares for the 2025/26 season. The GFA has made it clear that the ban will only be lifted once the full amount is paid.

This development adds to the growing concerns over the club’s financial management and could further impact their transfer plans if not resolved swiftly.