German club Cologne respond to Tianjin Quanjian's legal threat

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French striker Anthony Modeste's contract dispute with China's Tianjin Quanjian has become a never-ending soap opera.

On Saturday, German second-division outfit Cologne issued a public statement announcing the re-signing of Modeste, who spent two brilliant seasons with them from 2015 to 2017. The striker had been training with their under-21 side since his relationship with Quanjian soured.

Anthony Modeste is contracted with Tianjin Quanjian until the end of 2020. /VCG Photo

Quanjian was obviously caught off guard by the new development and a few hours later, they responded it by releasing a statement, making it clear that Modeste is still on their books while warning Cologne that they would take legal action against them if necessary.

The ball is back in Cologne's court.

And on Sunday, the German club countered Tianjin Quanjian's claim of Modeste's contract situation by insisting that the 30-year-old is free to move to Germany and his transfer is legitimate.

Cologne managing director Alexander Wehrle told local media outlet the Express: "Based on our information and legal advice from our lawyers, we could confirm that he (Modeste) has legitimately terminated his contract (with Quanjian)."

Cologne managing director Alexander insists that Modeste's transfer to their club is legitimate. /VCG Photo

Modeste, who signed a contract with Quanjian in 2017 until the end of 2020, has been attempted to secure a return to European leagues since August. However, the unsettled target man failed to sever ties with Quanjian before the summer transfer window closes.

Feeling disgruntled, Modeste refused to feature for Quanjian again and took the matter to FIFA, where he appealed for early termination of his contract. But the soccer's world governing body has not given a final verdict.

"Tianjin Quanjian firmly believes that FIFA will make a fair decision on this case, and the club will take all measures to safeguard our legitimate rights and interests," read a Quanjian statement.