Dutch clubs seek compensation from Spartans for Comvalius

Ħamrun Spartans are facing a hefty compensation claim from three amateur clubs over Dutch striker Sylvano Comvalius.

Well-placed sources have told The Sunday Times that Quick Boys, FC Omniworld and Diemen have sent a joint-letter to the Spartans demanding compensation for Comvalius who signed his first professional contract when he joined the Maltese club in January.

According to FIFA rules, clubs are entitled to training compensation if a player aged under 23 secures a professional deal with another team.

Quick Boys, FC Omniworld and Diemen are requesting compensation on the basis that Comvalius trained and played for their youth sides earlier in his career.

Comvalius, who last summer joined Birkirkara for an undisclosed fee, was 21 when he teamed up with the Spartans.

Ħamrun are contesting the claim of the Dutch clubs and have already sent their reply after seeking expert advice on the matter.

The request for compensation for Comvalius is reminiscent of a similar, successful claim made by Hibernians against Sliema over former Malta U-21 midfielder Julian Vella last year.

Having come through the youth ranks of Hibernians, Vella signed a deal with Sliema in January 2008 after a brief spell with Northern Irish club Lisburn Distillery where he was still registered as an amateur player.