Ioan Varga, the majority shareholder of CFR Cluj, has firmly denied claims made by Hendrik Klein, the Swiss representative tasked with attracting sponsors and investors to the club. Klein previously asserted that he had reached an agreement with Varga for the acquisition of a 50% stake in CFR Cluj, part of a broader business deal involving real estate.
After being absent from the public eye for several days, Klein announced a supposed deal with Varga, which he described as advantageous for both sides. Klein claimed, “For us, CFR Cluj is the best option. There is a broader deal that Nelu agreed to, not just involving the football club but also an associated real estate project. We have a signed contract for that! We would receive 50% of CFR and 50% of profits from the real estate project, provided we secure funding to ensure both projects progress.”
Varga Denies Agreement with Klein: “I Haven’t Signed Anything!”
Confronted with Klein’s assertions, Varga stated that no such agreement exists. He confirmed that a proposal was made, which required Klein’s group to provide €10 million. Varga emphasized, “I have not signed anything! I repeat, absolutely nothing. There was indeed a draft contract between me and Mr. Klein and his associates, requesting that I cede 50% of CFR Cluj, with their commitment to provide €10 million in return. I did not agree to sign that draft contract, and in fact, I haven’t even signed the draft, let alone any official document.”
Nonetheless, Varga hinted he might be open to selling some of his shares for smaller amounts. He remarked, “I told Mr. Klein that it’s fine if he can’t bring €10 million; he could bring €5 million, and I would gradually give him shares based on his contributions. If he brings another €3 million, I give more shares, and if he brings €5 million, I give more shares; I could even sell the club entirely.”
As of now, however, Varga noted that no funds have been received. “I am still waiting because I trust them; I know from mutual friends that they are serious people. Perhaps they will manage to come up with the funds in the coming weeks, and then, of course, we will sit down at the table, but I will give shares according to what they contribute, not just like that, 50%.”
Varga: “Only Stories So Far. Show Me a Bank Statement!”
Varga has also questioned the financial capability of Klein and the investors he claims to represent, stating, “Mr. Klein should show me at least a bank statement. So far, it’s only been stories. I don’t mean to speak harshly, but when someone only talks and shows nothing… Well, investor, do you want a salary? If you want a salary, it means you want to work for money like an employee. I have shown you my resources; you need to show yours. If you have funds, prove it so we can discuss further. I don’t like being strung along with empty promises for four months, where he keeps saying he’ll bring money but hasn’t delivered a single euro. Do you understand?”
The outcome of discussions between Varga and Klein’s camp remains uncertain. Recently, Varga claimed that the club does not face significant financial issues and is not at risk of entering insolvency, a situation that has developed later.
