Accra Hearts of Oak’s Anthony Annan managed to beat the European transfer deadline on Wednesday when he completed a move to Norwegian side, IK Start.

Annan, one of the key performers for the Phobians has signed a three-year deal that would see Hearts of Oak earning $200,000.

At the beginning of the season, Annan attempted to seal a deal with Blackburn Rovers but couldn't secure a move with the English premiership side.

The midfielder’s departure increases the player exodus that has hit the present league leaders in the domestic premiership.

Hearts of Oak have already lost three players – Bernard Dong Bortey, Dan Quaye and Ablade Morgan, to the Asian markets where the trio have signed short deals with Chinese sides.

Defender, Stephen Ofei is also reported to have completed a move to the Bulgarian league.