You are correct that there is no transfer agreement at the moment, it was torpedoed shortly after birth. But the rest is I believe incorrect. The CEO at the time AR did not negotiate transfer agreements. This was done at CC and FOD(M)'s level.
AR attended meetings where this stuff was put forward, otherwise enjoyed a game of golf.
I don't know why it all came to nought except that there were some lets say autocratic characters in ABZ who had their own agendas.
My inclination is that those in the Group (baby or regional) should benefit first. It seems only fair, in an otherwise unfair world.
So Mag Man you will find at the end of your career you will have more than one 'once in a lifetime' opportunity that was missed, you are just going to have to suck it up and stop feeling sorry for yourself.