Sekhukhune United receive Libyan interest in striker Chibuike Ohizu

Sekhukhune United have been approached by a Libyan club over a possible move for Nigerian striker Chibuike Ohizu, only weeks after the 29-year-old secured South African permanent residence.

The North African club, whose identity is known to this publication, has made contact with Sekhukhune. The Premier Soccer League club are understood to be open to concluding the deal, with further developments expected this week.

Ohizu’s start to the new season was delayed while he waited for his permanent residence to be issued. The document was granted at the beginning of this month, enabling Sekhukhune to register him with the PSL as a non-foreign player.

He has since made substitute appearances in the club’s past two matches.

Ohizu began his career at Future of Africa Academy in 2015 before moving to Leruma United. Jomo Cosmos signed him in 2018, and he spent two years with Ezenkosi before joining Sekhukhune United.

He has remained with Sekhukhune since that move, although he spent the previous season on loan at Siwelele.

The latest approach is not the first time Ohizu has attracted interest from North Africa. Two years ago, Algerian champions MC Alger proposed a deal for the striker.

The Algerian club offered USD150 000 (approx. R2,4 million), but the negotiations did not result in an agreement and Ohizu stayed at Sekhukhune. It was reported that the South African club were seeking USD300 000 (R4, 8 million).

Sekhukhune subsequently began discussions with Ohizu over a new contract. Those negotiations ended with an agreement on an extension in April last year.

However, circumstances involving then head coach Eric Tinkler later resulted in Ohizu being sent out on loan to Siwelele despite having signed the new deal.

Sekhukhune must now consider another decision over the striker’s future following the interest from Libya. The club are believed to be keen to complete the proposed transfer.

Photo: Philip Maeta/Gallo Images