Simba have begun early preparations to strengthen their squad ahead of next season following recommendations from head coach Steve Barker, who wants the recruitment process completed early to reduce pressure during the transfer window.
It is reported that Barker has already submitted his recommendations on the areas that need strengthening, requesting at least six new players.
Barker has asked for two full-backs to reinforce the positions currently occupied by Shomari Kapombe and Nickson Kibabage, whom the South African coach prefers over others in those roles, namely David Kameta ‘Duchu’ and Anthony Mligo.
“On the right, there is Kapombe, and the coach advises that next season he should not be overused in too many matches in order to maintain his performance level. However, the coach still has doubts about whether Duchu can improve his quality,” a source was quoted by Mwanaspoti.
“On the left, Nickson Kibabage is currently performing very well, even beyond expectations, but Mligo’s level has dropped. If Kibabage is unavailable, the team could struggle. The coach has suggested that signing a player as good as or better than Kibabage would be a positive step.”
Barker has also requested two midfielders—one defensive midfielder and one attacking midfielder—while also seeking improvements in the attacking department.
“He also wants one defensive midfielder. We have already secured this player and will announce him later; he is from within the country. If he joins and partners with Yusuf Kagoma, we believe we will have the right player due to his defensive ability and age.”
“At the moment, we are also looking for a number eight. We want to take our time to find the right player who will bring significant quality to our squad.”
Barker is also keen to sign two strikers, one foreign and one local.
“For one striker, he wants someone who can also play as an attacking midfielder. There is a player we are working hard to sign who fits perfectly. The other striker should be local, and we are currently assessing one to see if he suits us.”
“We want to complete our signings early before the end of the season. We don’t want the pressure of competing for players and benefiting agents. That’s why we started early so everything can be done in the way we want.”
As part of this plan, it is reported that Simba have already completed the signing of defensive midfielder Kelvin Nashon, who will join the club at the end of the current season from Singida BS. Currently, Nashon is playing on loan at Pamba Jiji.
In addition to new signings, Simba are also continuing the process of extending contracts for key first-team players whom Barker wants to retain.
Yusuf Kagoma, Rushine De Reuck, and Elie Mpanzu have already signed long-term contract extensions.
