Tanzanian midfielder Feisal Salum’s new contract with Azam FC effectively ends any speculation linking him with Kaizer Chiefs.
Salum is a favourite of PSL side Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi and was a top target for the Tunisian coach. However, Azam’s high asking price deterred the Soweto giants. Salum had entered the last year of his three-year contract, which he signed when he joined the Chamazi Millionaires from Young Africans in 2023.
Although there was hope he might still consider a move, the appointment of Florent Ibenge as the new coach changed the situation. Ibenge made it clear he wanted to work with Salum, and letting their best player go would have sent a negative message about support for the new coach.
In bringing Ibenge, Azam made a statement of intent that they want to challenge for the league title. They have also done some business in the transfer market, bringing in Jephte Kitambala from AS Maniema, Senegalese forward Pape Doudou from Linguere, experienced goalkeeper Aishi Manula from Simba, and midfielder Sadio Kanouté from Stade Malien.
Edward Charles Manyama returns from Singida, while Himid Mao joins from Ghazzal el Mehalla of Egypt. Lameck Lawi and Mukhsin Malima, who joined from Coastal Union and ZED FC, respectively, complete the list of new signings.
WHAT ARE THE DETAILS OF FEISAL SALUM’S NEW DEAL
In response, Azam acted swiftly, extending Salum’s contract by a year amid links with Simba SC. The new deal keeps him at the club until July 2027. Reports suggest the contract is worth R5 million, including signing fees and an improved salary, ensuring his extended stay.
Interestingly, FARPost has learned that the deal includes a release clause of US$500,000 [approximately R8.7 million], a much more reasonable figure than the R40 million Azam reportedly quoted a year ago when Chiefs showed interest.. The 27-year-old attacking midfielder has been pivotal for the Taifa Stars, who were the first team to reach the quarter-finals at the ongoing CHAN.
He has started all three of Tanzania’s matches on home soil en route to the quarter-finals, walking away with a Man of the Match award in the national team’s opening game.
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