Online Reporter
Fungai Muderere
THE battle for the signature of Mongameli Tshuma has exploded into a full-blown transfer war.
CAPS United and PSL FC Hunters officially lodged their interest in the highly-rated midfielder.
But, if either club hopes to lure the 24-year-old playmaker away from Bosso, they will have to dig deep into their pockets and pay a staggering US$200,000.
CAPS United have offered a US$100,000 transfer fee for the midfielder.
Speaking to Zimpapers Sports Hub yesterday, Highlanders CEO, Denzel Mnkandla, confirmed the Bulawayo giants had received two formal offers for Mongameli’s services.
“Highlanders have received two offers, one from CAPS United and one from FC Hunters for Mongameli Tshuma,” said Mnkandla.
“Highlanders have already set the valuation of Mongameli (US$200,000), which has already been published in the media.
“Anywhere, if there is a club that wants to meet that valuation, we can talk.”
The statement effectively throws down the gauntlet to Mongameli’s suitors with Bosso making it abundantly clear that they have no intention of allowing their midfield maestro to leave for cheap.
Mongameli, who still has two years remaining on his contract, has established himself as one of the most creative and exciting attacking midfielders in Zimbabwe.
Blessed with exceptional vision, close control and an eye for a killer pass, the former Hwange and Zebra Revolution player has become a central figure in Bosso’s engine room.
His stock has risen dramatically following a string of excellent performances for both Highlanders and the Warriors.
He has been attracting widespread admiration from clubs eager to secure his signature.
Speculation surrounding the midfielder’s future reached fever pitch last week after he was spotted in Harare during CAPS United’s encounter against Triangle United.
The Green Machine, desperate to restore their status among Zimbabwe’s football elite, are understood to be viewing Mongameli as a key component in their rebuilding project.
FC Hunters, who are battling to preserve their Premiership status, appear equally determined to make a major statement in the transfer market by landing Mongameli.
For now, however, Bosso remain firmly in control of the situation.
And with a US$200,000 price tag hanging over Mongameli’s head, the question is no longer whether clubs want him.
It is whether they can afford him.
