Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Sports Reporter
HIGHLANDERS and CAPS United have finally opened preliminary negotiations over the possible transfer of Warriors midfielder Mongameli Tshuma after the Harare giants cleared outstanding payments from Adrian Silla’s US$10 000 transfer to the Green Machine. The settlement has unlocked discussions that had been impossible while the debt remained outstanding, with sources indicating that the two clubs have now begun engaging over what is expected to be one of the biggest domestic transfer deals of the season.
While talks have started, Highlanders are understood to be standing firm on their US$200 000 valuation of the midfielder and have made it clear they will not entertain offers below that figure.
A source familiar with the negotiations said settling the Silla balance was a necessary first step before meaningful discussions could begin.
The issue of the Silla transfer had to be resolved first. CAPS have now cleared the outstanding balance and that has allowed the clubs to begin preliminary discussions over Tshuma. But these are still early talks and Highlanders have not shifted from their US$200 000 valuation,” said the source.
CAPS United have made no secret of their admiration for Tshuma, who has established himself as one of the country’s outstanding midfielders over the past two seasons. Club president Farai Jere recently confirmed that the Harare giants had submitted an official offer for the player, with reports indicating CAPS would prefer to conclude the deal before allowing the midfielder to remain at Highlanders on loan until the end of the season.
However, Bosso remain determined to ensure that any deal reflects what they believe is the player’s true market value.
The club views Tshuma as one of its most valuable assets and is in no rush to sell despite growing interest. The timing of the transfer developments adds another layer of intrigue ahead of Sunday’s Castle Lager Premier Soccer League showdown against Simba Bhora at Barbourfields Stadium.
Instead of focusing solely on a fixture that could have a significant bearing on the title race, much of the conversation among Highlanders supporters has centred on whether they are watching Tshuma in Bosso colours for one of the last times.
The midfielder has been one of Highlanders’ standout performers this season, producing commanding displays in the heart of midfield while earning regular recognition at national team level.
Despite the speculation, Tshuma is expected to start against Simba Bhora as Highlanders seek to improve a poor record against the Shamva-based side.
Bosso have found Simba Bhora to be one of their most difficult opponents since the latter’s promotion to the top flight. In seven previous league meetings, Highlanders have managed just one victory, while Simba Bhora have won three and the remaining three encounters have ended in draws.
