Under-age African footballers trafficked to Asia

London: It has been found out in an investigation report that aspiring African footballers as young as 14 years of age are being trafficked to Asia and forced to sign contracts.

According to BBC, six minors are still with top Laos side Champasak United, after it imported 23 under-age players from West Africa to an unregistered football academy in February this year.

The club, which is based in southern city Pakse, has, however, denied of the wrongdoings.

According to FIFA regulations, the movement of players to a foreign club or academy until they are 18 years of age is prohibited.

A FIFA spokesperson said that the organisation is in contact with several member associations and gathering all the information required to assess the matter and safeguard the interests of the minors.