Sporting face potential ban from UEFA competitions over supposed overdue payments
Sporting CP could be banned from competing in UEFA competitions for the next three seasons unless they settle, or prove they have settled, outstanding debts.
The UEFA Financial Control Committee (CFCB) say Sporting have until the end of the month to prove that they have sorted out their financial situation, otherwise they face the prospect of not being allowed to compete in the UEFA Champions League, Europa League, or Europa Conference League from next season, even if they were to qualify through their league position.
If Sporting CP do not prove an arrangement to pay the outstanding amount required has been met or reached by the deadline, they face potential exclusion from Europe's most prestigious competitions.
Here is the link to the official UEFA statement on the matter.
Sporting deny that such a prospect is on the cards, and assure that they have paid what is due to Sampdoria in the transfer of Bruno Fernandes back in 2017.
Nevertheless, this alarming news could mean that Sporting look to sell before the end of the window - either to help balance the books, or perhaps simply to help alleviate issues that could potentially be felt by any possible European ban - which could explain why they are now open to selling key player João Palhinha.
According to Record, despite Sporting’s initially intending to retain their squad heading into February, João Palhinha could be the exception to the rule, and is the closest of the squad to be making an exit - with one foot said to already be out of the door at the club.
Palhinha has a release clause of 60 million euros, a value Sporting have previously been holding out for, but they are believed to be willing to consider offers in the region of 30 million euros for the 12-time Portugal international - a decrease of 10 million euros compared to their asking price in the summer.
A move to England or Spain is considered most likely for the 26-year old, who has previously been linked with both Real Madrid and Wolves, among various others.
Palhinha has been a regular starter for Sporting this season, having played 25 matches across all competitions, including 17 in the league and 5 in the Champions League group stage.
However, with the arrival of Manuel Ugarte, who is just 20 years of age and has performed well in the limited number of games he has so far been afforded, Palhinha is one that could be sold for a good price while his stock is high.
As the transfer window draws to a close, Palhinha is one to keep a very close eye on.
