Despite the interest, the potential move remains uncertain, with the player yet to communicate a definitive stance on whether he is ready for a new challenge outside Tanzania.
Dar es Salaam. The mid-season transfer window is reshaping the narrative of Tanzanian football, exposing contrasting approaches by the country’s two biggest clubs as Young Africans (Yanga) tread carefully over the future of Moussa Bala Conte while rivals Simba push ahead with a sweeping squad overhaul.
According to information obtained by The Citizen, Moroccan giants Raja Casablanca have tabled a formal offer to Yanga for Conte, targeting the winger during the ongoing mini registration period.
Despite the interest, the potential move remains uncertain, with the player yet to communicate a definitive stance on whether he is ready for a new challenge outside Tanzania.
Sources familiar with the situation say former Simba head coach Fadlu Davids, now working abroad, remains an admirer of Conte, having closely followed his progress since his days at CS Sfaxien in Tunisia.
Inside Yanga, officials are said to be waiting for the player’s approval before advancing discussions, reflecting the club’s measured approach to the transfer.
Conte’s situation highlights a moment of strategic pause at Yanga, contrasting sharply with developments unfolding across the city at Simba, where the club has opted for decisive action in response to mounting pressure.
Facing a difficult campaign start particularly in the CAF Champions League, Simba have used the mid-season window to trigger a significant reset under South African head coach Steve Barker.
Rather than minor reinforcements, the Msimbazi Street giants have welcomed six new players, signalling a clear intention to change direction and restore belief among supporters.
Club insiders indicate that Simba’s management, working closely with Barker and his technical bench, conducted a swift assessment of early-season shortcomings and moved aggressively to correct them before continental ambitions slipped further away.
The rebuild began in goal, with Niger international Djibrilla Kassali brought in to stabilise a position that had been unsettled by injuries to Moussa Camara and Yakoub Suleiman. Defensive reinforcements followed, including local left-back Nickson Kibabege and central defender Ismael Toure, both expected to provide much-needed solidity against seasoned African opponents.
In midfield, Simba secured the return of experienced Zambian international Clatous Chama, whose composure, creativity and leadership are seen as vital in restoring control during high-pressure matches.
Out wide, pace and attacking balance have been added through Libasse Gueye, while Anicet Oura unveiled on a one-and-a-half-year contract—offers versatility across attacking roles.
The influx of new faces has intensified competition within the squad, putting established players under renewed pressure to perform. Speaking on the changes, a source emphasised that commitment trather than reputation—will be the key criterion in team selection.
“I’m not a big fan of big names. Anyone who listens, shows commitment and fights for the club will play,” the source said, underscoring unity as the cornerstone of success.
As Yanga weigh their options and Simba push ahead, the mid-season transfer window is shaping up to be a decisive moment, one that could influence momentum, confidence and the balance of power in Tanzanian football for the rest of the season.
