Rumour Mill: Ekhaya eye Bullets duo Salima, Mologeni in ambitious mid-season push

Ekhaya Football Club is reportedly making significant moves to bolster their squad ahead of the mid-season transfer window, with top targets identified as FCB Nyasa Big Bullets’ promising talents, Chikumbutso Salima and Yamikani Mologeni.

The newly promoted side is not only aiming to solidify their position in the TNM Super League but also to secure a coveted spot in next season’s Airtel Top Cup.

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Sources close to Ekhaya indicate a strong desire to sign both players, who were notably groomed by Ekhaya’s current Head Coach, Enos Chatama, during his tenure at Bullets Reserve. The connection between the coach and the players is seen as a key factor in Ekhaya’s pursuit.

“Wa Mpira” can confirm that Ekhaya has made Salima and Mologeni their primary transfer targets, despite facing considerable resistance from Bullets, who are keen to retain their blossoming young stars.

In a bold move, Ekhaya has reportedly tabled a “staggering MK15 Million signing-on fee” for Chikumbutso Salima, and they are prepared to cover his transfer fee if Bullets agree to release him.

A crucial element in Ekhaya’s strategy is the contract situation of both Salima and Mologeni. Their current deals with Bullets are set to expire in January next year, meaning they will enter the crucial “last six months of their contracts” when the mid-season window opens, allowing them to openly discuss terms with potential suitors.

While Bullets are actively engaged in discussions with the players’ representatives to extend their contracts, a “gap on salaries” remains a point of contention.

Both Salima and Mologeni, who share the same manager, are reportedly seeking improved salaries, emphasizing that “signing on fee is periodic.” The two meanwhile remain committed to extending their deals with Bullets should their demands be met.

This potential double swoop follows Ekhaya’s recent acquisition of Alick Lungu from Bullets on a free transfer after his contract expired. Ekhaya is now planning to offer Lungu a long-term contract after his plans to play abroad did not materialize.

FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Chief Executive Officer, Albert Chigoga, confirmed to Daily Times Sports last week that negotiations with Salima’s representatives are “in advanced stages,” expressing optimism that Salima will sign the offered contract.

However, the specific financial details of both Ekhaya’s and Bullets’ contract offers to the players remain undisclosed to the public.