Tanzania champions Simba SC have commented on the latest speculation linking them to Orlando Pirates striker Justin Shonga.
During the off-season, the Tanzanian club was heavily linked with Pirates’ Zambian forward, although the Buccaneers decided to hold onto the player for the current campaign, and seemingly did not entertain any offers at the time.
The Tanzanian outfit did hold a pre-season camp in South Africa last year, in July, where they played against Pirates in one of their friendly matches, and that would have given them the opportunity to have a closer look at Shonga.
The 23-year-old has struggled for regular game-time, having made only four starts in all competitions for the Buccaneers this season, and appearing not to be in coach Josef Zinnbauer’ plans. Due to his situation, Shonga is said to be considering leaving the Buccaneers in search of first team action elsewhere.
Reports emerging out of Tanzania this past week indicated that the 20-time league champions have reignited their interest in the Chipolopolo forward.
However, Chief Executive Officer of the club, Senzo Mbatha, told the Siya crew that Simba have not been in contact with Shonga or Pirates.
“I have also read the same reports on social media. It is obvious that speculation is rife during this time of the year as we are nearing the June/July transfer window,” said the CEO.
“Officially, as the club we have not been in contact with the player or his club for his services. We are currently focusing on our players whose contracts are about to expire at the end of the current season. We are trying to tie up those,” he added.
“As for new recruits, the registration committee has not met and or finalised on the matter. We still have an unfinished league, which is also our immediate focus. We are hopeful that this can also be concluded judging from the statements from the government this past weekend,” Mbatha told the Siya crew.
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