Berkane explore ambitious double deal for Cape Verde’s Bubista and Vozinha

Renaissance sportive de Berkane are exploring a high-profile move for Cape Verde manager Bubista and veteran goalkeeper Vozinha as they attempt to strengthen their squad and coaching staff for the new season.

The Moroccan club are seeking a replacement for Mouine Chaabani, who has left to take charge in Tunisia, and have reportedly made progress in discussions with Bubista. However, negotiations remain complicated because the Cape Verde coach wants to continue leading the national team alongside any club role.

Bubista travelled to Morocco on Sunday to hold direct talks with Berkane’s leadership, according to Moroccan outlet Le Site Info. The meeting has not yet resolved the central issue between the two parties.

The 54-year-old is understood to want permission to return to the Cape Verde squad during international windows while also working as Berkane’s head coach. That arrangement has been rejected by the club, whose directors want an entrenador fully committed to their team throughout the season.

Without an agreement on that point, Bubista’s proposed move could collapse despite the discussions having advanced. The coach said only a few days ago that he wanted to continue his work with the Blue Sharks, despite receiving several offers both before and after the 2026 World Cup.

Berkane are also pursuing Vozinha, one of the other leading figures in Cape Verde’s historic campaign at the tournament.

The 40-year-old goalkeeper had appeared set to join Colo-Colo, with the Chilean club even announcing his signing on social media. His move to Santiago has reportedly been postponed three times, however, with concerns over his playing opportunities among the factors influencing the delay.

That uncertainty has opened the door for Berkane to re-enter the race. Brazilian publication Globo says Vozinha is now waiting for an official proposal from the Moroccan club before making a final decision on his future.

Bubista and Vozinha played important roles in Cape Verde qualifying for the last 32 of the 2026 World Cup, the country’s first appearance in that stage of the competition. Bringing the pair together would give added significance to Berkane’s plans as they compete in Botola and the CAF Champions League.

Neither deal has been completed. The negotiations for Bubista appear particularly vulnerable because of his determination to keep his position with Cape Verde. Berkane remain keen to reunite the two World Cup figures, but the club must quickly find a compromise with the coach if it is to make the proposed double move a reality.