Psychic Octopus Paul in Fierce €38k Transfer Bid
Paul, the psychic octopus responsible for predicting the winners of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, has become the subject of a bidding battle involving businessmen from all over the world. The octopus, which successfully forecast a Spanish victory in the final against Holland last Sunday, is being sought after by Spanish businessmen who wish to celebrate their footballing victory with the surprise icon of the tournament.
Paul is currently living in the Sea Life Centre aquarium located in the German city of Ouberhausen. If Spanish bidders have their way, Paul could find himself relocated to Spain where he will be renamed ‘Paulo’.
Many have expressed interest in using him as a mascot for a high profile food event whilst other bids from major advertisers continue to flood in recognition of his universal appeal.
The losers of the 2010 tournament, however, have responded less enthusiastically to Paul’s powers.
Supporters of Argentina, Germany and Holland have been issuing death threats towards the octopus with many posting recipes online.
The Berliner Kurier newspaper even urged the Sea Life Centre to “throw him in the frying pan” following the German defeat by the Spaniards in an exciting semi-final.
Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero, the Spanish Prime Minister, has raised concerns about the safety of the creature that has aroused the anger of less successful sporting nations.
Zapatero announced the need to take the issue seriously and send out a “protective team” for Paul. Meanwhile Elina Espinosa, Spain’s minister for Environment and Fisheries, said that she would be visiting the European Council of Ministers to request a fishing ban on the creature “so the Germans do not eat him”.
