Zigic transfer to Valencia sorted by weekend - manager

"We did everything to reach an agreement with Valencia," the manager, Nikola Calasan, told the Belgrade daily Blic. He accused Racing of effectively blackmailing Zigic.

 "The negotiations were difficult and nauseating ... Racing's president Francisco Pernia believes he should triple his earnings on Zigic and is setting unbelievable terms," Calasan said.

 Racing Santander president Francisco Pernia is asking up to 20 million euros (27.56 million dollars) for Zigic.

 A prolific, 2.02-metres tall scorer, Zigic, arrived in Santander in 2006 from Red Star Belgrade. Ahead of the 2007/08 season, apart from Valencia, English, Italian and and  Turkish clubs.

 Calasan said that Valencia was the top choice. "The deal must come through, I'd rather not consider alternatives ... In my book, Nikola is already in Valencia," he said.

DPA