Kotoko star rejects contract extension as rival lurk on to pounce

Kumasi Asante Kotoko season may already have been shuttered following their late slum in performance that partly handed the league title to perpetual rivals Hearts of Oak but that might not be the end. The pain point for the Porcupine Warriors could just be on the way if the reports emerging are anything to go with.

Reports filtering in say a star performer in their current set-up is refusing to commit to fresh terms with the record league winners. Abdul Ismail Ganiyu who has marshalled the backline for the Porcupine Warriors this season ensuring they rank as the best defensive team in the league so far has so failed to agree to new terms with the side.

The centre-back who signed a 3-year deal with Kotoko back in 2018 from Karela United is reportedly receiving offers from abroad. He is also thought to be on the wishlist of Kotoko’s sworn rivals and 2020/21 season crowned champions, Accra Hearts of Oak who is said to be waiting with a tempting offer for the defender.

That temptation to join the champions and play in Africa or seek opportunities outside could be what will undo the efforts of Kotoko to tie the centre-back whose contract will expire at the end of the season to new terms.

If he does depart from the Porcupines, where will his next spot be as he will not be short of offers. That will be his to decide but no Kotoko fan would want to add more power to the arsenal of their opponents so a move to the national capital with Hearts of Oak will be a breaking point for Kotoko. Maybe Kotoko can still have their man if negotiations go on well.

By: Clifford Adumbire | myactiveonline.com