FIFA denies clearance for Swansea duo

Swansea have announced FIFA have initially denied international clearance for the signings of Darnel Situ and Rafik Halliche.

The Premier League new-boys had agreed a £250,000 transfer fee to sign Situ from Lens, as well as a loan deal for Fulham defender Halliche, on transfer deadline day.

However, manager Brendan Rodgers has been unable to field the duo whilst awaiting the green light from the world game’s governing body and, due to minor delays in processing the transfers, the south Wales club have now been informed they will not be granted international clearance for either defender.

FIFA’s decision comes despite Swansea having the full backing of the Premier League, the Football Association of Wales, the FA, the French Football Federation and the Professional Footballers Association.

Swansea will await official written confirmation from FIFA before considering whether to appeal.

A Swansea statement read: “Swansea City is disappointed with FIFA’s decision and are currently pursuing other options to strengthen the squad.

“The club will not be making any other comment at this stage until full written clarification is received from FIFA.”