Kotoko Launch Bid For Appiah, Abayie

Stephen Appiah

Kumasi Asante Kotoko have launched an audacious bid to sign the Black Stars captain, and Quincy Owusu Abayie.

The Porcupine Warriors have made an offer to the Turkish side, Fenerbahce to enable them sign the inspirational midfielder.

The 28-year-old has been without a club since falling out with Fenerbahce over a botched knee surgery that kept him out of action for nearly one year.

However, the player led the Black Stars to qualify for the 2010 World Cup Finals in South Africa.

Having completed the signing of Baffour Gyan from his Russian side, Kotoko are convinced that they can also sign Appiah on loan.

A spokesman for the club, Ali Maradona said: “We know he is technically a Fenerbahce player and have asked that they give him to us on loan.

“They have asked us to give them a week so we are waiting. We are convinced that this move will be good for Appiah and for us too.”

Fenerbahce have been unwilling to release Appiah despite several offers from top clubs across Europe.

The world football governing body, FIFA set the Black Stars captain's transfer fee at 2.3 million Euros, but Fenerbahce vehemently contested FIFA's valuation for the midfielder.

The Ghanaian skipper is hugely respected in the country and would boost attendances for league matches.

Appiah played for Udinese, Parma, Brescia and Juventus before leaving to join Turkish side, Fernebahce.

Quincy Owusu Abeyie has no experience of playing in Africa, but Kotoko believe that the move would be a good place for him to launch his career.

The former Arsenal striker has returned to Spartak Moscow after unsuccessful loan spells and trials at Birmingham City, Cardiff City and Bristol.

Kotoko want to fortify their squad with quality players ahead of the Glo Premier League and continental competitions.