On deadline day, Het Laatste Nieuws reported that Michael Verrips wanted to terminate his contract with KV Mechelen and join Sheffield United on a free transfer.
It was also explained the Belgian side had no plans to terminate the goalkeeper’s contract and the latter’s efforts haven’t yielded any results.
However, the Blades confirmed the Dutchman has joined them on a free transfer, signing a four-year deal.
Mechelen are unhappy with the manner in which Verrips left the club as they confirmed it on their official website that neither the player nor the Premier League new boys followed procedures to complete the transfer.
“No agreement was found with Michaël Verrips nor with Sheffield United on a correct transfer for the goalkeeper. KV Mechelen takes the necessary steps against the unilateral termination of the contract by Verrips,” a statement read.
“In recent days, KV Mechelen wanted to offer Michaël Verrips the opportunity to reach an agreement and work out a correct transfer to Sheffield United.”
“After many promises from the entourage of Michaël Verrips, KV Mechelen did not receive a concrete offer from Sheffield United until Wednesday evening, one day before the closing of the incoming transfer market in the Premier League.”
“Despite contacts with Sheffield United, the English club suddenly withdrew the bid on Thursday afternoon to announce it a few hours later as an incoming transfer from a free player.”
The Jupiler Pro League side have now decided to take the matter with the sport’s governing body.
“Michaël Verrips unilaterally broke his agreement with KV Mechelen. Malinwa obviously does not agree with that,” the statement added.
“A transfer from Michaël has always been negotiable, but his entourage wanted to get out without transfer fee. We therefore take the necessary steps with FIFA.”
