Chippa United close in on former Marumo Gallants midfielder Ibrahim Bance

Chippa United are advancing towards the signing of former Marumo Gallants midfielder Ibrahim Bance, with negotiations between the Eastern Cape club and the Ivorian player now at an advanced stage.

Sources have described the discussions as “fairly advanced”, placing Chippa United in a strong position to complete a deal for the 25-year-old, who has been considering his options since becoming a free agent.

Bance officially left Marumo Gallants after his contract expired on 30 June. Since then, a number of Betway Premiership clubs have been monitoring his situation, but Chippa United have made the greatest progress in their efforts to secure the left-footed defensive midfielder.

The Chilli Boys had already emerged as one of the clubs showing significant interest in Bance after his departure from Gallants. That interest has now developed into serious negotiations, with the Eastern Cape side increasingly regarded as the most likely destination for the player.

No agreement has yet been officially concluded, and the move remains subject to the completion of the discussions. However, Chippa United are understood to be ahead of the other clubs tracking Bance as the talks continue.

Kaizer Chiefs, Sekhukhune United and Richards Bay have all been monitoring the midfielder, but none of those clubs have advanced as far as Chippa United in negotiations.

Bance’s availability on a free transfer has increased the competition for his signature, but the progress made by Chippa United means the club now appears to be in pole position. A move to the Eastern Cape outfit is increasingly likely if the remaining details can be finalised.

The potential transfer would see Bance continue his career in the Betway Premiership after his spell with Marumo Gallants came to an end. For now, he remains in discussions with Chippa United, with the latest developments pointing towards an imminent switch to the Chilli Boys.

The negotiations come as Chippa United seek to secure the services of a player who has attracted attention from several leading domestic clubs. While his next move has not been formally confirmed, the current position of the talks suggests that Chippa United are closer than their rivals to reaching an agreement with the former Marumo Gallants player.