Imps Block Peterborough's Yeo Bid

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12th July 2006

Lincoln City and Peterborough United could be set for a legal battle over former Imps' striker Simon Yeo, who is wanted by Peterborough.

Yeo is currently training with Peterborough and scored two goals in their 4-0 win at Irish league club Sligo Rovers on Monday evening. Obviously Peterborough, who are now managed by former Imps' boss Keith Alexander, wish to sign Yeo.

However, a major problem has arisen because as part of the agreement for Alexander to leave Lincoln City, he is forbidden from signing any of Lincoln City's contracted players for the next twelve months.

At first, it was thought that Yeo could move to Peterborough because his Lincoln contract expired on July 1st, thereby making him a free agent. However technically, Yeo was under contract when Alexander left Lincoln City, hence a potential legal battle.

Last month, Peterborough signed Jude Stirling, who was released by Lincoln City in May. However, Stirling's contract also expired on July 1st, thereby meaning that Peterborough had to seek Lincoln's permission for the signing. Since Lincoln had already released Stirling, this was practically a formality. The Yeo situation is very different, as it was his choice to leave Sincil Bank.

Peterborough's owner Barry Fry confirmed: "Lincoln allowed us to take Jude Stirling, but they appear anxious to stop us getting Simon.

"I am currently trying to sort things out amicably with them as it's harsh to stop any player now out of contract joining a club of his choice."

Quite how this situation will resolve itself is unclear but it could certainly set a legal precedent should it go to court.