South African winger Keletso Makgalwa set for Simba SC move

South African winger Keletso Makgalwa is on the verge of completing a move to Tanzanian giants Simba SC ahead of the new season.

The talented attacker is expected to continue his career in the Tanzanian Premier League after reaching an agreement with Simba, bringing an end to weeks of speculation surrounding his next destination.

Makgalwa had also emerged as a target for Simba’s fierce rivals Young Africans, who made a late attempt to hijack the transfer following the appointment of South African coach Manqoba Mngqithi.

Mngqithi, who was unveiled as Young Africans’ new head coach last Friday, is understood to have identified Makgalwa as one of his priority signings after taking charge of the Tanzanian champions.

The pair previously worked together at Mamelodi Sundowns, where Mngqithi was part of the technical team that helped oversee Makgalwa’s development. Their successful working relationship made the winger an obvious target as the experienced coach looked to stamp his authority on his new squad.

However, Young Africans’ interest came too late.

By the time Mngqithi made his move, Makgalwa had already reached an agreement with Simba SC, leaving little room for a dramatic change of plans despite the opportunity to reunite with his former coach.

Instead, the winger is set to link up with another respected South African tactician, Steve Barker, who has taken charge at Simba and is leading the club’s rebuilding process ahead of the new campaign.

Barker is believed to have played a key role in convincing Makgalwa to choose Simba, with the coach viewing the experienced winger as an important addition capable of strengthening the club’s attacking options.

Makgalwa will also reunite with former Mamelodi Sundowns teammate Rushwin De Reuck, adding a familiar face to the dressing room as he prepares for the next chapter of his career.

His arrival comes as Neo Maema, who spent time at Simba on loan from CAF Champions League winners Mamelodi Sundowns, is expected to return to Chloorkop following the conclusion of his temporary spell with the Tanzanian club.

The move represents another significant statement of intent from Simba as they continue assembling a squad capable of challenging for domestic honours and making a strong impact in continental competitions.

For Makgalwa, the transfer offers an opportunity to revive his career in a new environment while working under a coach who is familiar with South African football and understands his strengths.

With personal terms reportedly agreed and the deal effectively complete, the only remaining step is an official announcement from Simba SC.

Unless there is an unexpected late twist, Keletso Makgalwa is expected to be unveiled by the Tanzanian giants in the coming days, marking one of the notable transfers involving a South African player during this transfer window.