It seems the big boys of the ZPSL Dynamos and Highlanders are losing their ability to lure or retain top players if the current transfer season is anything to go by.
For years the country’s two clubs have been the ultimate destination for most local players but well financed clubs with deep pockets are raiding and capturing some of the best talent on the local market even more now
This week Dynamos have lost influential midfielder Ronald Chitiyo to Harare City. Chitiyo was not happy on what was on offer at Dembare and signed a one year deal with Harare City. To add a further blow one of Dynamos’ prime targets Raphaeal Manuvire was also snapped up by Harare City.
Ocean Mushure has also been on the radar of Chicken Inn with FC Platinum also reportedly keen to sign the Soccer Start of the Year runner up.
But it’s just not Dynamos , Highlanders seem to be in the same boat. Bosso have already lost the talented Nqozibitha Masuku to FC Platinum and Chicken Inn are closing in on Teenage Hadebe and Obadiah Taraumbwa. The pair were on loan from Bantu Rover but Highlanders were given the option to sign the players but their slowness seems to have cost them. With star player Knox Mutizwa expected to sign for Bidvest Wits Highlanders may find themselves with a very thin squad ahead of the 2016 season after the departures.
CAPS United the 3rd biggest club seems to be doing much better after Farai Jere took over as majority shareholder.The Green Machine are looking at a few targets to boost their side that already includes veteran Method Mwanjali and former Dynamos striker Simba Sithole.
It seems the current economic climate cannot be ruled as a big factor with players opting for their welfare and good salaries that can be guaranteed by the likes of FC Platinum, Harare City and Chicken Inn.
Dynamos secretary general admits they simply cannot compete with the ‘richer clubs.
We can’t match their (players) demands and they would rather join clubs of their choice,” Chikengezha told Newsday “We don’t want to find ourselves in unnecessary debt. We want players who have commitment and loyalty. You find that it is the highest bidder who is getting a player and we can’t match that.”
The transfer season is still open for some time but early indications are it could be a tough time for the “big boys” of the ZPSL.
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