Jeunesse Sportive de Kabylie (JSK) have set their sights on Congolese international Karim Kimvuidi as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of the upcoming African Champions League campaign.
The 23-year-old attacking midfielder has emerged as a priority target for JSK’s German coach Josef Zinnbauer, who knows the player well from their time in South Africa.
Kimvuidi, formerly with Daring Club Motema Pembe (DCMP) in DR Congo, played under Zinnbauer at Orlando Pirates, where his talent first caught the coach’s attention.
Zinnbauer believes Kimvuidi possesses the technical qualities and creative spark that can elevate JSK’s midfield as the Algerian giants prepare for both domestic and continental challenges.
The club is determined to secure his signature in the coming weeks as part of their broader strategy to rebuild and compete strongly in the CAF Champions League next season.
However, the pursuit of Kimvuidi is anything but straightforward. The Congolese midfielder is attracting considerable interest from clubs across multiple continents.
According to reports from South Africa, Major League Soccer side DC United have made enquiries, viewing Kimvuidi as a dynamic option to bolster their midfield.
Turkish Super Lig outfit Alanyaspor are also monitoring the situation closely, while Moroccan clubs RSB Berkane and Olympic Safi have expressed concrete interest in bringing the talented midfielder to the Botola Pro.
Despite a season hampered by limited appearances — featuring in just 15 matches across all competitions, including eight league games — Kimvuidi remains a highly regarded prospect.
His standout moment came in the CAF Champions League’s first round last August, where he found the net in a commanding 3-0 victory over Disciples FC, underlining his ability to deliver on the big stage.
JS Kabylie are keen to capitalise on their coach’s familiarity with the player to edge out competition. Zinnbauer’s direct relationship with Kimvuidi could prove pivotal in convincing the midfielder to join the Algerian club, offering him the opportunity to feature prominently in one of Africa’s most prestigious competitions.
The challenge for JSK, however, lies in the financial and sporting packages presented by rival clubs. The allure of playing in Europe’s fringes with Alanyaspor or stepping into the growing MLS market with DC United presents Kimvuidi with attractive alternatives.
Meanwhile, both Berkane and Safi can offer competitive football in Morocco’s highly rated domestic league, coupled with regular participation in CAF tournaments.
As the transfer window progresses, negotiations are expected to intensify. JSK’s ambition to rebuild their squad around young, creative talents like Kimvuidi is clear, but whether they can outpace competition from financially stronger leagues remains uncertain.
For Kimvuidi, the decision will hinge on more than financial terms. Regular playing time, the opportunity to shine on the continental stage, and working again under a familiar coach are factors that could influence his next move.
With interest growing and negotiations underway, the future of Karim Kimvuidi promises to be one of the most closely watched African transfer sagas of this summer.
