Birkirkara FC Targeted In Fraudulent Transfer Plot Involving Fake German Club Offer
Birkirkara FC has revealed that it was the target of a fraudulent transfer scam, after an individual impersonating a German club’s sporting director attempted to deceive both the club and one of its players with a fake transfer offer.
In a statement, the club confirmed it had received what appeared to be a lucrative proposal for one of its players. The same individual even approached the player directly, presenting an offer that initially looked genuine and difficult to refuse.
Over recent days, Birkirkara FC and the player worked closely together, hoping to secure a move that would allow him to progress to a stronger league with significantly improved personal terms. However, the situation quickly raised alarms.
On Tuesday, the club received a suspicious document that immediately triggered concern among its officials. Follow-up communication escalated matters further when the club was asked to pay a so-called temporary “transfer tax”, with assurances the amount would be refunded — a classic indicator of a transfer-related scam.
Thanks to the swift intervention of Birkirkara FC’s legal team, supported by ECA lawyers, it was quickly established that the offer was entirely fraudulent, and no further action was taken.
Birkirkara FC then contacted the German club directly. The Bundesliga responded promptly and professionally, confirming that the offer was fake and that they were already cooperating with police, as other clubs and agencies had reported similar impersonation attempts.
The club expressed its gratitude to its legal representatives, the ECA, and officials from the German club for their assistance in ensuring that the player and Birkirkara FC were protected from the scam.