Hearts of Oak’s ambitious off-season rebuild has hit a major snag after the Ghana Football Association (GFA) imposed a transfer ban on the club for failing to pay $70,000 owed to New Edubiase United.
The debt stems from the transfer of midfielder Salim Adams.
Following a disappointing 2024/25 season, the club had unveiled a bold turnaround strategy, including the appointment of a new recruitment team and a technical bench led by experienced coach Mas-Ud Didi Dramani.
However, the GFA’s sanction now prevents the Phobians from registering any new players—locally or internationally—until the outstanding amount is paid.
The timing is a significant setback. Sources within the club indicate that several player targets had already been shortlisted, but all transfer activity has been put on hold.
The situation also casts a shadow over Dramani’s efforts to build a competitive squad capable of challenging for honours next season. More broadly, it highlights ongoing concerns about Hearts of Oak’s internal financial management and ability to fulfil contractual obligations.
Unless the debt is cleared promptly, the club risks missing out on key signings and falling further behind in an already competitive transfer market.