Highlanders, Andrew Mbeba talks drag on

HIGHLANDERS vice-captain Andrew Mbeba is yet to resume training as contract negotiations between the defender and the Bulawayo giants continue, with the club confirming that talks aimed at retaining him remain ongoing.

The 25-year-old centre-back, whose contract expired on December 31, has stayed away from training since the start of pre-season preparations.

Mbeba has adopted a firm stance in negotiations, with his decision hinging on the inclusion of a house in his proposed signing package, amid talk that he is not happy with previous promises for a stand or house, which were never fulfilled.

A product of the Highlanders’ youth system, Mbeba has made it clear that he will not commit to a new deal without tangible guarantees from the club.

“The club remains in talks with the player and hopefully an agreement will be reached imminently,” said Highlanders chief executive officer, Denzil Mnkandla.

Earlier reports suggested that Mbeba had attracted interest from local rivals FC Platinum and Hardrock, while there were also rumours linking him with potential opportunities outside the country.

However, a persistent right knee injury, which ruled him out of the Warriors’ Africa Cup of Nations finals squad, has complicated possible moves.

Sources familiar with the situation say concerns over his recovery period have made other clubs hesitant, leaving Highlanders as the most realistic option should negotiations succeed.

The injury is expected to keep Mbeba sidelined for several months.

Despite the current stalemate, both parties are understood to be keen on reaching an agreement. Club officials have reiterated that discussions remain active as Bosso seek to secure the services of one of their most consistent defenders.

Highlanders are meanwhile in the midst of a squad overhaul ahead of the 2026 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season.

The club has parted ways with Melikhaya Ncube, Arthur Ndlovu, Raphael Pitisi, Honest Mhlanga, McKinnon Mushore, Atusaye Nyondo, Learmore Muyambo and Martin Nhubu, while Mason Mushore was sold to South Africa’s AmaZulu.

Confirmed new arrivals include Mongameli Tshuma, Tawanda Shenje, Rayton Chuma, Pride Zendera, Shelton Moyo, Shepherd Mhlanga and Raisome Pavari.

Also hoping to secure contracts are goalkeeper Aron Ngwenya, Lawrence Mhlanga, Kudakwashe Mahachi, Brian Jaravaza and Brion Ngwenya, who have all been training with the team.

With pre-season already underway and Mbeba still absent from training, the outcome of the ongoing talks could prove crucial in shaping both Highlanders’ defensive stability and the club’s broader rebuilding plans ahead of the new season.