Contract talks between Newcastle Jets and Italian playmaker Fabio Vignaroli have broken down. It is believed that talks have ceased after the two parties could not agree on the length of the deal and the 33-year old is returning to Italy.
Vignaroli was expected to finalise a deal to become the Jets marquee player today but these revelations have left the A-League club in a crisis.
Jets coach Branko Culina said his plans for the season opener would now have to be altered.
"Fabio was a perfect marquee player," he said after the deal had collapsed. "You had him during the ACL - you knew exactly what you were getting so there was no guessing.
"I came to training with one team in mind - now I have to look at other options."
Jets CEO John Tsatsimas added: "We have our position and Fabio has his. Until there is some meeting of minds, it is a frustrating position."