In 2004–05, Roma sold Emerson and Walter Samuel for €53 million and acquired Matteo Brighi, Simone Perrotta, Matteo Ferrari and Philippe Mexès as replacements, totalling for €30.45 million. Moreover, the highly rated young striker Mido was signed as an investment, although he was sent out on loan in January to Tottenham Hotspur after a disappointing first half-season. The club also delayed the tax payment in order to improve the cash flow, but further scandal was exposed after Roma was investigated by judicial authorities for irregularities on player transfers. The club originally hired Cesare Prandelli but he resigned for family reasons prior to the start of the season, prompting Roma to appoint Rudi Völler, Luigi Delneri and Bruno Conti. Roma finished in eighth, their worst league position in recent seasons,