Kawonga, Gabeya pass trials in SA

Malawi Under-20 internationals Chawanangwa Kawonga and Miracle Gabeya have made the grade at South African Premier Soccer League (PSL) clubs Maritzburg United and Bloemfontein Celtic respectively where they attended trials.

Silver Strikers general secretary Mike Tembo confirmed that Maritzburg have asked them to make an offer for Kawonga while Bullets chairperson Kondi Msungama said transfer negotiations for Gabeya are already in progress.

“They already knew the player’s abilities, but they just wanted him to go through formal assessment.

“To that effect, Maritzburg organised a trial match for Chawanangwa on Saturday and they were very impressed so much that they have asked us to come up with a price and we’ll be meeting later today to make a determination,” said Tembo.

Kawonga flew out to South Africa on Friday for two-day trials and flew back on Monday to sit for his Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE) examination.

Msungama also said Celtic contacted him through its management and an offer was already made to them.

“Initially, we asked for K7 million, but they bargained saying he is still young and yet to make a mark and that he is also a minor until next year when he will be eligible to play in the PSL.

“They are suggesting that if we agree on a reasonable fee, then they can sign him and then loan him back to us until next season or he can be featuring for their reserve team. So, as an executive, we are still discussing,” said Msungama.