MAINLAND Tanzania Premier League Champions Young Africans are expected to agree on a one-year deal extension with custodian Djigui Diarra as his current contract is set to run out after the 2024/2025 season.

The reassurance demonstrates the club's determination to retain their key players as the Jangwani Street-based side is currently under a transfer ban imposed by FIFA due to outstanding settlements owed to former striker Lazarous Kambole.

Diarra joined Young Africans at the beginning of the 2021/2022 Premier League season, replacing Farouk Shikalo, the Kenyan goalie.

The Malian international penned a two-year contract and extended another two-year deal that will expire at the end of the 2024/25 season, and Young Africans are currently negotiating a new deal in order to reduce the risk of losing him on a free transfer after next season.

Since his arrival in the 2021/2022 season, Diarra won back-to-back Premier League Golden Gloves, contributed to three consecutive league titles, the same tally on Federation Cup titles, two Community Shields, as well as going all the way to the CAF Confederation Cup final in the 2022/2023 season.

His outstanding performances and leadership qualities have cemented his position as a vital asset for Young Africans.

Diarra's agent Djally Tchumbi has expressed the desire of Young Africans to extend the services for one more year while his client is also open to serving the club albeit with interest from other foreign clubs.

"Diarra has had outstanding seasons at Young Africans for three straight years. With multiple titles and individual accolades, both my client and the club are confident to get this deal done and extend to one more year," the agent was quoted saying.

"We are yet to reach the final agreement but once we agree on the deal, Diarra will sign the papers once he returns from holiday. A one-year deal that will keep him until the 2025/2026 season. My client is happy at Young Africans although we have offers from other clubs," said Tchumbi.

Young Africans will be active in the market once their ban is lifted by FIFA after losing two backup goalies with the departure of Aboutwaleeb Mshery and Metacha Mnata on free transfers.

With Diarra's unwavering commitment to the team, Young Africans are confident that they are in safe hands for the upcoming season.

Before his arrival at Young Africans, Diarra had already made a name for himself in his home country, Mali.

Hailing from domestic champions Stade Malien, Diarra showcased his talent and potential when he was nominated for the prestigious the 2015 CAF Most Promising Talent of the Year Awards.

As Mali's first-choice goalkeeper for several years, Diarra has earned over 50 caps, representing his nation in prestigious tournaments such as the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and World Cup qualifiers.

With Diarra committing his future to Young Africans, the club can now focus on building a formidable team capable of achieving greater success.

Diarra's exceptional shot-stopping abilities, leadership on the field, and extensive experience make him an indispensable asset for Young Africans as they strive to maintain their dominance in Tanzanian football.