Esperance in trouble again over ex-Kaizer Chiefs target Elias Mokwana, face Fifa player transfer ban

Fifa have written to Esperance ordering them to pay Sekhukhune United (US$400,000) R7.5 million plus 5% interest for the August 2024 transfer of winger Elias Mokwana.

The North Africans have been given until January 30 to pay Babina Noko or face a player transfer ban.

In a letter dated December 16, the world football governing body issued Esperance with a stern warning that failure to pay Sekhukhune would lead to them not being allowed to sign players for three successive transfer windows.

"Pursuant to art. 24 of the Regulations, if full payment [including all applicable interest] is not made within 45 days of notification of this decision, the following consequences shall apply: 1. The Respondent shall be banned from registering any new players, either nationally or internationally, up until the due amount is paid," read Fifa's letter as per FARPost.

"The maximum duration of the ban shall be of up to three entire and consecutive registration periods.

“2. The present matter shall be submitted, upon request, to the FIFA Disciplinary Committee in the event that full payment (including all applicable interest) is still not made by the end of the three entire and consecutive registration periods.”

This is the second time Esperance are in breach of their agreement regarding Mokwana being their player.

In November, the frustrated Bafana Bafana player was on the verge of terminating his contract with the Tunisian giants who owed him money in wages.

They, however, moved in and settled what was due to Mokwana as they faced possible Fifa sanctions had the player cancelled his contract and reported them to the world football governing body.

Fifa's ultimatum could force the Tunisian giants to act fast and pay Sekhukhune to avoid having their hands tied in the transfer market.

This comes as Mokwana has hit top form and has scored four goals in his last seven games for Esperance.