Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira
Zimpapers Sports Hub
HIGHLANDERS vice-captain Andrew Mbeba has taken a firm stance in the on-going contract negotiations with the club, insisting that he will not sign a new deal unless a house is included as part of his signing-on package.
The defender has reportedly made it clear that verbal promises are not enough, signaling one of the most decisive moves of his career.
The 25-year-old, a product of Highlanders’ youth system, has not been attending training since 2026 PSL pre-season training begun.
“He is loyal to Highlanders, but he wants security. For him, the house is not a luxury, it’s a demonstration of the club’s commitment,” said an insider.
Mbeba’s contract expired on 31 December, leaving him a free agent. His impressive performances had drawn attention from several local clubs, including FC Platinum and HardRock, and there were even rumours of interest from clubs abroad.
However, a persistent right knee injury, which forced his withdrawal from the Warriors squad ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations finals, has complicated potential moves.
A source familiar with the situation explained that the injury and the anticipated recovery time made other clubs hesitant to pursue him, leaving Highlanders best placed to negotiate.
Mbeba is reportedly expected to undergo treatment that could keep him sidelined for several months, further limiting immediate options elsewhere.
“He wants to stay, but only if his demands are met. He has drawn a line, no house, no signature. That’s his boundary.”
Highlanders, meanwhile, have been restructuring their squad, releasing eight players after their contracts expired and bringing in reinforcements, including Mongameli Tshuma, Tawanda Shenje, Rayton Chuma, and Pride Zendera.
Retaining Mbeba could provide much-needed stability in defense during this period of transition.
Supporters are watching closely as Mbeba reportedly gives the club a deadline to finalise negotiations by the end of the week. How Highlanders respond to his firm stance on the house, while managing his injury, may well define both the start of the 2026 season and Mbeba’s long-term future at the club.
Highlanders have been dealt another blow with defence regular over the last two years Arthur Ndlovu leaving for Manica Diamonds.
