Hearts of Oak transfer ban lifted after settling over GHC 120,000 debt to Francis Adjetey

Hearts of Oak can now breathe a sigh of relief after the Ghana Football Association (GFA) officially lifted the clubs transfer ban following the full payment of outstanding debts owed to former player Francis Adjetey.The Phobians were hit with the ban after failing to meet a GFA-imposed deadline of July 7, 2025, to pay over GHS 106,000 to Adjetey, in line with a ruling by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).The total amount eventually paid by the club exceeded GHS 129,000, covering the principal sum, a 5% annual interest dating back to September 2023, and USD 1,250 in legal costs.The situation had threatened to derail Hearts preparations for the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season, with the transfer embargo preventing the registration of new players both locally and internationally.After several unsuccessful attempts to negotiate a staggered payment plan, the club finally made a lump-sum settlement on Thursday, July 17, effectively clearing the last obstacle in their way.Per GFA regulations, the ban was lifted automatically upon payment, paving the way for Hearts to resume full transfer activities.Earlier in the week, reports emerged that Adjeteys legal representatives had written to the GFA, urging strict enforcement of the ban.Hearts swift response with the payment reflects a growing sense of urgency at the club to put its financial troubles behind.This resolution follows a similar case involving a USD 38,000 debt to New Edubiase United over the transfer of midfielder Salim Adams. That payment, made roughly two weeks ago, saw the lifting of a previous restriction on the club.However, Hearts legal and financial battles may not be entirely over. According to media reports, the club faces yet another deadline from FIFA to settle an amount of USD 150,000 owed to former Technical Director Rene Hiddink.Failure to comply could result in another potential transfer ban, throwing a shadow over their rebuilding process.Nonetheless, the timely resolution of the Adjetey and Edubiase cases is seen as a step in the right direction, offering fans renewed hope as the club looks to restructure both on and off the pitch.As the new season approaches, Hearts will be keen to strengthen their squad and return to contention in domestic and continental competitions - but only if they can keep their financial house in order. Read Full Story