Umana Reyer Venice takes legal action amid Bruno Caboclo’s absence, while the president of the Italian team, Federico Casarin, reveals links to a mysterious move to Serbian giants Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade.

Bruno Caboclo, who had signed with EuroCup team Umana Reyer Venice during the summer, has yet to arrive in Italy as he missed his scheduled flight to Europe.

The situation has taken an intriguing turn as various media reports have emerged. Federico Casarin, the president of Venezia, also expressed uncertainty about Caboclo’s current status, mentioning rumors suggesting he might have joined an Israeli team or is expected to join Partizan.

“We cannot confirm whether he has joined a team in Israel, and there have been rumors suggesting a potential move to Partizan,” Casarin addressed the unusual situation via Casarin in Il Corriere del Veneto. “Nevertheless, we want to clarify that we have taken formal legal steps by communicating through our lawyers to all basketball leagues. We strongly discourage any club from considering his services, as Caboclo remains under contract with our organization.”

According to Monday’s Israeli media reports, the Brazilian forward is ready to participate in a U.S. tour with Maccabi Ra’anana, a club that will play friendly games against the Brooklyn Nets, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Minnesota Timberwolves.

Caboclo’s intention appears to be to use this opportunity to secure a contract in the NBA.

However, the deal he signed with Venezia lacks an exit clause, which means he cannot participate in any friendly games without the approval of his current team.

The 27-year-old recently starred with the Brazilian national team jersey at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023. Caboclo averaged 16.4 points and 9.2 rebounds per game.