Highlanders FC are stepping up efforts to bring striker Knox Mutizwa back to his boyhood club, but face stiff competition from South African sides following his recent exit from Richards Bay FC.
Mutizwa became a free agent in unexpected circumstances last month after parting ways with Richards Bay despite having two months remaining on his contract. The decision raised eyebrows, particularly as the forward had still been involved in the club’s push for a top-eight finish in the Betway Premiership.
The KwaZulu-Natal outfit currently sit 12th on the table with 23 points, just five points adrift of eighth-placed Golden Arrows, with eight matches remaining in the campaign.
The 32-year-old striker, who scored four goals in 17 appearances this season, continues to attract interest thanks to his experience and proven track record in South African football.
Newly appointed Highlanders coach Benjani Mwaruwari has already expressed a strong desire to reunite with Mutizwa at Bosso. The Bulawayo giants have endured a slow start to their season under the former Manchester City striker, failing to register a win in their opening five matches while scoring and conceding just three goals.
Mutizwa is viewed as a potential solution to Highlanders’ attacking struggles, with his ability to convert chances seen as key to improving results. The club, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, is hopeful of convincing the forward to return home.
WHAT ARE MUTIZWA’S OPTIONS?
However, interest from within the PSL could prove decisive. Relegation-threatened Magesi FC are among the clubs monitoring his situation, while Chippa United coach Vusi Vilakazi is also keen on a reunion with the striker after their previous spell together at Golden Arrows.
In Zimbabwe, CAPS United and Hard Rock FC have reportedly expressed interest, while Motsepe Foundation Championship side Casric Stars are also said to be in the mix.
Despite the widespread interest, indications are that Mutizwa is likely to remain in South Africa, where his experience in the Betway Premiership makes him a valuable option for clubs looking to bolster their attacking options ahead of next season.
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