Oberhausen reject 'Paul to Madrid' transfer bidOCTOPUS TRANSFERMadrid zoo have reportedly contacted the Sea Life aquarium in Oberhausen regarding the transfer of Paul the psychic octopus, but have had their move rebuffed.
Paul, who had a 100% record of predicting results at the 2010 World Cup (including the final) has been the subject of intense media coverage throughout the tournament and Spain's match-winner Andres Iniesta was even pictured with a small octopus toy during the celebrations.
But with the famous invertebrate set to retire from clairvoyancy game, Madrid zoo are keen to capitalise on their country's success by bringing him to Spain and have made an offer in response to "dozens of petitions from all over Spain".
"The zoo also guarantees that Paul will receive the best attention, reflecting the great affection in which he is held by all the Spanish people since he predicted that the Spanish team would win the football World Cup," said Madrid zoo spokeswoman Amparo Fernandez. "We hope that within the next few days we will be able to confirm news that the admirable Paul will be part of the club of the most loved and charismatic animals of the Madrid Zoo."
However, Oberhausen officials have rejected the bid, claiming he is not for sale. "We are not in contact with Madrid Zoo. And we know nothing about swapping Paul for another animal or him going to Madrid Zoo for a transfer sum," Sea Life spokeswoman Tanja Munzig said.
One Spanish businessman has already offered ?38,000 to bring him to Spain, but he looks set to remain in Germany for the rest of his days.
By Soccernethttp://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=808971&sec=transfers&cc=4716 
