***Thursday, 1st December 2017**
Vincent quickly arrived at the Luminus Arena and waited a few minutes for Mason before they made their way into the K..R.C Genk's head office in the complex.
On entering the building, they were quickly ushered in by a Secretary after informing her of their appointment. As they walked through the brightly lit corridors on their way to the conference room, Vincent noticed the picture frames holding trophies that had been won over the years indicating the rich culture and achievements won through the club's history.
This further increased Vincent impression of the club which is more or less likely the point of it.
In a few minutes they stood before a finely crafted imposing door, indicating only serious business took place there.
Mason seemed unfazed in contrast to Vincent who was already nervous and sweating.
"Be at ease, I'll be responsible for the contract negotiations and anything that comes up while we are in there, so relax."
Vincent simply responded with an "Ok" looking visibly relieved as Mason knocked on the door twice before pushing open the door without waiting for a response.
Entering the room there were four people seated at the conference table three in a suit and the other in a formal clothing.
Seated a the table were Peter Croonen the club president, Albert Stuivenberg(head coach/manager), Dennis Har( Legal advisor), Witsel Van Brussels.
"Welcome Vincent," Witsel smiled warmly.
"This is the club's president Mr. Peter Croonen and legal advisor Mr. Dennis Har." Witsel introduced the others to Vincent.
"Good morning, Witsel," Vincent reciprocated his greetings warmly.
Vincent then shook hands with Albert Stuivenberg, Peter Croonen and with Dennis Har.
"I've heard a lot about you, I have high expectations for you," Peter Croonen said with a smile as they shook hands.
"This is my agent Mr. Mason Topaz," Vincent said as they sat at the table for discussions.
"Please read through all the terms of the contract, then we can negotiate." Dennis nodded while handing them a document each.
The room fell into silence for about 45 minutes as everyone stared at the duo majorly at Dennis who had an unreadable expression on his face.
"Well, Mr. Topaz," Dennis said in a formal tone.
"Have you and your client read and understood the terms and conditions of the contract?" He asked gazing seriously at Mason who stil had an unreadable expression. "Are you okay with the proposed terms?" He inquired maintaining his serious expression.
"We have indeed finished reading the draft for the contract,"
".... however I believe some clauses still need amendment. The release clause seems okay but you are going to need to add some incentives and bonuses as the buyout clause seems a little too high for a young player." Mason proposed calmly.
"Also a weekly salary of £4000 is too poor considering his talent and hard work in the past one year. I believe his weekly salary should be at least £10000 with at least 40 minutes of game time, considering the fact that he is still young and that there is a contract extension clause by the end of his one year play with the team." He continued seamlessly.
"Mr. Mason, the buyout clause of £22 million will remain unchanged considering the clubs previous investment in his development,"
"As for the his weekly salary, it can be increased to £10000, but his contract will be extended to two years and he will have to start with the reserve team. If he performs well and is a substitute or starter he will get at least 40 minutes of game time, what do you think?" Dennis countered calmly.
"No. A two year contract of £10000 per week seems like exploitation to me." Mason argued vehemently.
"Hmmm..... we can add a £1000 appearance bonus and a contract terms adjustment by the end of his first year."
"Okay. The release clause on the contract should be brought £7 million, we can proceed with the signing after the new terms have been added." Mason said after contemplating for awhile.
"Mr. Mason while the release clause is indeed negotiable, there are still limits. We can reduce it to £15 million." Dennis said stated an annoyed tone.
"It's still to much, are you trying to tie my client down to your club for 5 years? £10 million is my last stake, either you agree or we end the matters here." Mason gazing deeply into his eyes pressuring him.
"Hmm.... Fine, £13 million take it or leave it." Mason stated firmly in conviction.
"Okay," Mason said not wanting to press to hard leading to an unsuccessful negotiation.
"Good, pleasure doing business with you." Dennis smiled extending his hand for a handshake as he stood up.
"Likewise." Mason replied revealing a subtle smile as he shook the outstretched hand.
"Well then, seems like the negotiations have been successful so we can prepare the official contract with the new terms right?" Peter asked smiling, seemingly relieved.
"Yes we can begin drafting the new contract," Dennis said in an affirmative tone.
"Good. Welcome to the K.R.C GENK Vincent, you can discuss the rest with the others such as your shirt number and others as I have another appointment to head to." Peter Croonen said as he stood up and straightened up shirt.
As Dennis and Mason amended and finalized the new contract which they printed from the printer in the room, Vincent chose his shirt number which was no. 12 then discussed the day for his photo shoot and publicity with the sporting director.
As Dennis brought the contract for Vincent to sign under Mason's approving gaze, Vincent became nervous and excited, with conviction he held the pen and signed his name on the sheet of paper.
Finally, Vincent has crossed that major milestone and the system notification sound going of in
his headed affirmed the reality.