Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
HIGHLANDERS Vice-captain Andrew Mbeba has taken a firm stance in the ongoing 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 assurances are insufficient, signalling one of the most decisive positions of his career. The 25-year-old, a product of Highlanders’ youth system, has not been attending training since the 2026 PSL pre-season began.
“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 performances in recent seasons had drawn interest from several local clubs, including FC Platinum and HardRock, while rumours also linked him with opportunities outside the country. However, a persistent right knee injury — which forced him to withdraw from the Warriors squad ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations finals — has complicated any potential move.
A source familiar with the matter said the injury, together with the expected length of recovery, had made other clubs reluctant to pursue him, placing Highlanders in the strongest position to negotiate.
Mbeba is expected to undergo treatment that could keep him out for several months, further limiting immediate alternatives 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,” the source added.
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 crucial defensive stability during this transition.
Supporters are closely monitoring developments as Mbeba is understood to have given the club a deadline to conclude negotiations by the end of the week. How Highlanders handle his firm stance on securing a house, alongside managing his injury situation, may shape both the start of the 2026 season and his long-term future at the club.
Highlanders have already suffered another setback at the back, with regular defender Arthur Ndlovu leaving for Manica Diamonds.
