There is a ‘genuine concern’ that Cardiff City’s new striker Emiliano Sala was on board a plane that has gone missing over the Channel Islands.Per the Mirror, a major search operation is underway after a private jet travelling from Nantes, France, to Cardiff disappeared from the radar near the Casques lighthouse on Alderney on Monday evening.French police have told AFP that they believe Sala, who recently completed a £15 million move to the Welsh club, was on board.Journalists in France claim the Argentine striker was seen going through border control in Nantes.After completing his move to Cardiff, Sala said: “I can’t wait to start training, meet my new team-mates and get down to work."

The BBC have reported that Cardiff are seeking clarification as to what has happened.

A search was carried out on Monday night, with helicopters from Solent and Newquay assisting, but search and rescue teams had to deal with worsening conditions.

The private jet, a Piper Malibu, has been missing since around 8.30pm and Cardiff chairman Mehmet Dalman has issued a statement voicing his concern.

“We are very concerned by the latest news that a light aircraft lost contact over the Channel last night," Dalman said, per the Mirror.

“We are awaiting confirmation before we can say anything further.

“We are very concerned for the safety of Emiliano Sala.”

The Mirror, citing the French media, go on to claim that Sala was driven to the airport by Nantes defender Nicolas Pallois after he met up with his former teammates on Monday.

Sala was expected to train with Cardiff on Tuesday ahead of the Bluebirds' Premier League match against Arsenal next week.

The striker had expressed his joy at becoming the club's record signing.

“For me it feels special,” he said following the £15m deal.

“I have come here wanting to work and to help my teammates and the club.

“I can’t wait to get to work straight away and do everything I can.”