SIMBA SC have successfully signed former AS Vita Club winger Elie Mpanzu, adding him to their ranks despite the transfer window having closed.

The Tanzanian giants confirmed that Mpanzu, who arrived in Dar es Salaam yesterday, signed a three-year contract and is expected to make his Premier League debut early next year. 

However, the winger is likely to be included in Simba's CAF Confederation Cup squad for the upcoming group stage matches.

The acquisition of Mpanzu comes as part of Simba’s strategy to strengthen their attacking options, particularly from the flanks. 

He will join an already formidable frontline that includes Joshua Mutale, Edwin Balua, Ladack Chasambi, and Salehe Karabaka, with the goal of boosting creativity and competition in wide areas. 

This move is especially crucial as Simba seek to sharpen their goal-scoring abilities after a relatively slow start to the season.

Mpanzu’s journey to Simba has been a long one, marked by several challenges. After trials with Belgium’s KRC Genk and failed transfer attempts in Europe, the negotiations between Simba and AS Vita Club were frequently stalled by high transfer fee demands. 

While AS Vita initially insisted on a $250,000 fee for Mpanzu, Simba’s persistence and eventual offer of $200,000 brought the negotiations to a successful conclusion.

Reports from DR Congo suggested that AS Vita Club was holding out for a higher bid from KRC Genk, but Simba remained steadfast in their pursuit. 

Mpanzu had initially agreed to a two-year deal with the Tanzanian club, but the arrival of new investors at AS Vita complicated matters, as they imposed a significant transfer fee. 

However, Simba’s efforts eventually paid off, securing Mpanzu’s signature in a three-year deal.

Simba SC coach Fadlu Davids is eager to integrate Mpanzu into his squad as the club focuses on both defensive and midfield improvements. 

Mpanzu’s arrival is expected to inject fresh energy into Simba's attack, especially ahead of their crucial CAF Confederation Cup second-leg clash against Al Ahly Tripoli tomorrow. 

A victory would see Simba advance to the group stage of the tournament.

Simba’s last appearance in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage was in the 2021/2022 season, where they were eliminated in the quarterfinals by Orlando Pirates in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 aggregate draw. 

With Mpanzu now part of the squad, the club hopes to make a deeper run in the competition this season.