Pavel Pivovarov defends Dínamo Moscou over scrapped deals for Plata and Matheus Martins | OneFootball

Dínamo Moscou CEO Pavel Pivovarov has rejected bad-faith claims over the collapsed moves for Plata and Matheus Martins, saying the club considers itself a victim too.

"We did not announce that these transfers had been completed, we announced that they had arrived. We also consider ourselves victims in this situation," he told Match TV.

"Initially, we did not plan to disclose details. We respect the players and the clubs. As both clubs are publicising the information, our statement was true and, considering the club's long-term objectives, we decided not to sign the contracts."

"It is the first time in my career this has happened. We acted openly, we wanted these players transferred, but the most essential stage was not completed. This is risk management, and it worked, these are long-term investments, so the decision was to withdraw."

Flamengo and Botafogo deny any clinical issues with their forwards. Flamengo criticised the Russians for amateurism and irresponsibility and said it will seek redress, while Botafogo are considering taking the matter to Fifa.

After pulling out, Dínamo Moscou signed Chilean forward Maxi Gutiérrez, 22, from Independiente of Argentina.

Plata was first. Sold last week for about 10 million euros, the Ecuadorian travelled on Saturday and was even announced by Dínamo Moscou before the U-turn. He will be reintegrated at Flamengo.

Matheus Martins was later informed of a failed medical. An agreement worth seven million euros had been in place. He will return to the Botafogo squad.

Source: Globo.com

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