Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
BULAWAYO Chiefs are poised to capitalise on the uncertainty surrounding Melikhaya Ncube’s future at Highlanders, with the midfielder emerging as a prime transfer target ahead of the 2026 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season.
Ncube, one of Bosso’s standout performers in recent campaigns, is out of contract on December 31 and could be set for a high-profile switch across the city.
Sources indicate that newly promoted Bulawayo Chiefs have been closely monitoring the situation and have already opened talks with the player, who is reportedly keen on joining Amakhosi amid the offer of a lucrative deal.
While speculation has intensified that Ncube has already agreed terms with Chiefs, Highlanders have moved to play down reports of an imminent departure.
Club chief executive officer Denzil Mnkandla confirmed that Bosso are eager to retain the midfielder and are in discussions over a possible contract extension.
“We are looking forward to extending the player’s contract and we are in the process of achieving that,” said Mnkandla.
However, the growing belief within football circles is that Ncube could be tempted by a fresh challenge and improved financial terms at Chiefs, who are preparing for life back in the top flight.
Should the move materialise, Highlanders would be forced back into the market to bolster their central midfield, especially after the confirmed exit of Mason Mushore.
Mushore’s camp has already announced that the midfielder will leave Bosso at the end of the 2025 season, closing a chapter in which he developed into a reliable figure in the black-and-white shirt.
Represented by Focus Sports Management, Mushore was praised for his growth and key contributions during his time in Bulawayo.
The potential loss of both Mushore and Ncube would represent a significant blow to Highlanders’ engine room, with sources also suggesting that vice-captain Andrew “Tower” Mbeba could be the next senior player to leave.
Ironically, the 2026 season is set to open with a Bulawayo derby between Highlanders and Bulawayo Chiefs, adding extra spice to Ncube’s situation.
The fixtures, confirmed ahead of the March 6–8 kickoff weekend, will see Bosso face Chiefs before a blockbuster clash against arch-rivals Dynamos in the Battle of Zimbabwe.
If Ncube completes his move, the opening derby could see the midfielder lining up against his former club, a storyline that would underline a changing of the guard in Bulawayo football and signal Chiefs’ intent as they return to the elite stage.
