Espanyol have fined Thievy Bifouma after the French forward failed to turn up for training on Tuesday morning.
The 22-year-old, who spent the second half of last season on loan at West Bromwich Albion, is widely expected to leave Espanyol this summer.
Malaga are said to be interested and the latest developments have only further added fuel to the fire.
"Following the absence of Thievy Bifouma at the training session scheduled for Tuesday, August 5, first thing in the morning and as was his professional duty communicated by RCD Espanyol, the club has decided to impost the player with a fine, applying internal disciplinary regulations," read a statement from the Spanish club.
"Specifically, Thievy Biofouma must assume a financial penalty for failing to appear at his place of work. The quantity shall be determined according to the rules of the club and will increase, under the provisions of the regulations themselves, if his absence is prolonged.
"The club understands that having contacted those around him, there are no motives that can explain his absence on the date set by RCD Espanyol, with the player having competed in international matches with the Congo national team."
Thievy joined Espanyol from Strasbourg in 2010.
Matt Law
