TNM Super League defending champions Silver Strikers have won the race to sign attacking midfielder Ernest Petro as a free agent in preparation for their CAF Champions League campaign.

Petro became available after agreeing to terminate his contract with FCB Nyasa Big Bullets in search of regular playing time, having become surplus to requirements under new coach Peter Mponda.

Wa Mpira reported on Wednesday that Mighty Wanderers were close to signing the experienced midfielder after his manager was spotted at the club’s headquarters holding talks with the Nomads’ Chief Executive Officer.

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However, the two parties failed to agree on personal terms, forcing the player’s representatives to travel to Lilongwe to meet with potential suitors.

Creck Sporting Club also inquired about signing Petro, who was a regular under former Bullets coach Kalisto Pasuwa, but they couldn’t secure his signature.

However, the Bankers ultimately beat both Mighty Wanderers and Ekhaya FC, who had appeared to be in pole position for his services. Despite the Nomads’ confidence and advancing discussions as of Wednesday, Silver Strikers outbid the current Super League leaders to land the midfielder.

Silver Strikers had been seeking a creative midfielder following key departures. Their marksman Chimwemwe Idana joined Zambia’s ZANACO FC, while Patrick Macheso moved to Creck Sporting Club on loan.

Petro has agreed to a two-year deal that will keep him with the Bankers until 2027.

The midfielder initially sought a loan move to secure playing time, with Creck Sporting Club his preferred destination. However, Bullets advised him to terminate his contract instead—advice he ultimately accepted.

Petro was a key player under former coach Kalisto Pasuwa, memorably scoring the winning goal in the 2024 Airtel Top 8 final against Silver Strikers. His fortunes changed dramatically under Mponda’s regime, with the new coach clearly not rating the player despite ongoing midfield issues.

The situation reached its lowest point during the recent Blantyre Derby against Wanderers, where Petro warmed up four times during the 1-0 defeat but was never given playing time.

Known by his nickname “Ngwazi,” Petro’s departure ends a hugely successful eight-year association with Bullets. During his tenure, he helped the club win five league titles and numerous cups, including their historic quadruple-winning campaign in 2023.

His original contract was set to run until January 2026, following an extension signed in 2023 when he was considered indispensable under Pasuwa’s leadership.