Shalulile joins Young Africans after leaving Mamelodi Sundowns on free transfer

Peter Shalulile has signed for Young Africans SC on a free transfer, with the Tanzanian champions confirming the arrival of the Namibia striker after an off-season pursuit.

The club announced the deal on their official social media channels, hailing the 32-year-old as one of Africa’s leading forwards and welcoming him to the Dar es Salaam side known as the Wananchi.

Shalulile joins as a free agent following his departure from Mamelodi Sundowns at the end of June, bringing to a close a prolific six-year spell at Chloorkop. During his time with the South African giants, he scored 136 goals in all competitions and established himself as one of the most feared strikers in the history of South African football.

His stint at Sundowns was marked by sustained domestic and continental success, including multiple Premiership titles, several domestic cup triumphs and a CAF Champions League crown.

Reunion with Mngqithi and rejected interest

The move sees Shalulile reunited with Young Africans head coach Manqoba Mngqithi, under whom he previously worked during his time in South Africa. That existing relationship is widely viewed as a decisive factor in the forward’s decision to move to Tanzania.

Young Africans were not alone in their pursuit. Shalulile had attracted interest from arch-rivals Simba SC, as well as clubs in Zimbabwe, Egypt and the Middle East. However, the chance to work again with Mngqithi and lead the line for the reigning Mainland Premier League champions ultimately proved persuasive.

Replacement for Dube and Champions League push

Yanga had been in the market for a new centre-forward after the departure of Zimbabwean striker Prince Dube, which left a notable gap in their attacking options.

Shalulile’s arrival is expected to provide an immediate solution, giving Young Africans a proven, prolific focal point as they prepare for another campaign in the CAF Champions League this season. The Namibian international will be tasked with spearheading the club’s domestic title defence while strengthening their challenge on the continental stage.