Transfer window closes

The local football transfer window closed on Sunday night with relatively low-key movements as clubs exercised caution in the fight for the TNM Super League title and survival.

Notable big-name signings were former foreign-based players—Yamikani Chester and Frank Banda—who were roped in as free agents by their former clubs Mighty Wanderers and Silver Strikers, respectively.

Nomads chairperson Chancy Gondwe confirmed yesterday that the former US-based attacker is the only player they signed during the window.

Another notable signing was former Civil Service (Civo) United captain Blessings Tembo who has returned to the Central Bankers at K3.5 million.

Silver public relations manager David Dauda said besides Tembo, they have not made additions to their squad.

On whether this was by design, the Central Bankers spokesperson said: “This is the only addition we wanted a. Otherwise, the coaches are happy with the current squad and only wanted to boost the midfield.”

Civo general secretary Ronald Chiwaula said they have signed Kondwani Mwaila from Silver on loan and promoted Arnold Wilson from their youth side.

Champions Nyasa Big Bullets have taken on board former Red Lions midfielder Paul Kansungwi and were completing the deal of Ekwendeni Hammers left-back Eric Kawonga yesterday.

Bullets chief administration officer Albert Chigoga confirmed Kawonga’s signing, adding that they have also loaned out Luke Chima to the Super League rookies.

However, he could not be drawn to disclose the transfer fee.

Other new signings include Josaya Duwa, who has signed for Karonga United from Ntopwa FC while the Amagheto Kids have roped in Nigerian Emenike Onuh.

Blue Eagles have signed former Bullets forward Patrick Phiri as a free agent and Tony Mbulu from Mighty Tigers.

Chigoga and football analyst George Kaudza Masina attributed the lack of movement to caution on the part of the clubs as well as financial constraints.

Said Chigoga: “This is testimony that clubs are going through financial constraints, especially due to effects of Covid-19.

“On the other hand, during the mid-season transfer window, teams are reluctant to release their key players because they are either fighting for the title or survival.”

On his part, Kaudza Masina said: “Apart from the signings of Chester and Frank Banda, there has only been one major transfer and that is of Blessings Tembo.

“This is not surprising because midway the season, teams tend to cling to their outstanding players. Secondly, clubs don’t have money to spend.”