CS Constantine sign DR Congo defender Johnson Atibu on a free transfer

DR Congo centre-back Johnson Atibu has joined Algerian Ligue 1 side CS Constantine on a free transfer from TP Mazembe.

The 29-year-old defender completed the move on 2 August 2026, ending his five-year spell with TP Mazembe. Atibu becomes part of the Constantine squad for the 2026-27 season, although the length of his contract has not been disclosed.

Born in Kindu, Atibu is a right-footed central defender standing 1.82m tall. He began his senior career with Maniema before moving to TP Mazembe in July 2021.

Atibu brings experience of African club competition to CS Constantine. He has made 17 appearances in the CAF Champions League, providing two assists, and has featured seven times in the CAF Confederation Cup. His continental record includes 24 appearances across the two competitions.

The defender’s move to Constantine represents his first transfer outside the Democratic Republic of the Congo, having previously played for Maniema and TP Mazembe. His arrival adds a player with experience at one of the continent’s major club sides to the Algerian club’s defensive options.

Atibu joined Maniema in July 2019, before switching to TP Mazembe two years later. He spent the following seasons with the Lubumbashi club and now begins a new chapter in Algeria.

CS Constantine play in Ligue 1, and Atibu’s transfer was registered at the start of the 2026-27 campaign. The move was completed without a transfer fee after his departure from TP Mazembe.

Atibu’s arrival gives CS Constantine a new centre-back option with a record of continental competition and previous experience in Congolese football. He has now officially become a CS Constantine player.