Mtambo (in red) addresses farmers at Kasoba in Karonga

Mozambican top-flight Mocambola League side Clube de Desportos Costa Do Sol has signed Mafco FC striker Richard Mbulu and Red Lions midfielder Chikoti Chirwa on one-year loan deals.

The two Malawi Defence Force (MDF) clubs confirmed the deals in separate interviews yesterday, saying the contracts are subject to extension.

Mafco FC general secretary Mike Uzale said in principle, they have agreed the transfer terms with Costa Do Sol.

“Basically, Mbulu is going there on loan and once the logistics are finalised, he will depart for Mozambique and we wish him well,” he said.

Mbulu said the deal is a solace after his failed move to Iran.

He said: “After spending a season at home following the failed move to Iran, I am excited to have clinched another foreign deal.”

It will be Mbulu’s third stint with the Mozambican club, having played for the same club between 2017 and 2018 before his move to Portuguese lower league side AD Sanjoanense.

He returned to Costa Do Sol in 2019 before clinching a deal with then South African Premier Soccer League side Baroka FC.

Red Lions spokesperson Joy Khakona said Chirwa’s deal has been finalised.

“He was supposed to leave on 3rd January, but we are still waiting for the authorities’ approval since he is a soldier working for Malawi Defence Force,” he said.

Khakona also said the Mozambican club, which finished seventh in the 12-team league last season, have paid the Zomba-based MDF side $2 000 (about K2 million) as training compensation.

Chirwa was not available for comment, but Khakona said the move is a relief for the player after previous failed deals in South Africa.

The duo will join four other Malawians, namely midfielder John ‘CJ’ Banda, who plays for champions UD Songo and Vilankulo trio of midfielder Chimango Kayira and strikers Bright ‘Bweke’ Munthali and Mathews Sibale in the Mocambola League.