Asante Kotoko on transfer deadline day freed up their books with the release of nine players; five of which are on an outright departure from the club, FootyGhana has compiled.

Top of the departure list is experienced midfielder Michael Helegbe who failed to reach a renewal agreement with Kotoko together with centre-back Kofi Agyare have joined Medeama SC in an arrangement which wipes off an outstanding debt the porcupine warriors owe the Tarkwa-based club.

The club also refused to extend former Ghana U-17 starlet Ransford Osei’s stay after he failed to keep up with competition in the team. Also out of the club is KNUST graduate Mohammed Alhassan Bukari who failed to make the first team since joining in January 2011.

Brazilian attacker Hermes Da Silva who was signed by the erstwhile Dr. Sarpong management in a GHc100,000 deal and initially received 30% of the amount has had his contract abrogated as he failed to adapt to the club’s system.

Tema-based Amidaus Professionals secured three Asante Kotoko youngsters, Saddick Alhassan, Richard Yeboah and Bismark Kwarteng on loan while promising striker Michael Mensah has returned for another loan spell at Wa All Stars.

Asante Kotoko however secured four experienced signings; Rahim Ayew, Isaac Boakye, Osman Bashiru and Daniel Larbi Koomson to strengthen the team for the domestic competitions as well as the CAF Champions League next year.

Kotoko who had registered 40 players (both for the first team and reserves league) as a result of the second round transfer moves have a squad of 35 players to end the 2013/14 Ghana Premier League.