TABORA United are on the brink of completing the high-profile signing of Gabon’s first-choice goalkeeper, Jean-Noel Amonome.

The experienced shot-stopper (pictured), who previously played for South Africa’s AmaZulu and AS Arta Solar in Djibouti, is expected to bring depth and competition to the club’s goalkeeping department.

Amonome’s arrival will intensify competition with the club’s current number one goalkeeper, Hussein Masalanga, and backup Haroun Mandanda. 

The signing comes as Tabora United seek to fortify their squad for the second half of the Premier League season.

A reliable source within the club confirmed that negotiations with Amonome are in their final stages. 

“The management is in advanced talks to finalize the deal with Amonome. The process is progressing well, and we are optimistic about securing his services,” the source revealed.

The source further emphasized the importance of the Gabonese international’s addition to the team: “His arrival will undoubtedly strengthen our squad. As the first-choice goalkeeper for his national team, he brings a wealth of experience and quality that will solidify our defensive capabilities. 

“We need to improve in every area, and Amonome fits perfectly into our vision for success.”

The push to sign Amonome aligns with the recommendations of Tabora United’s head coach, Anicet Kiazayid, who has called for reinforcements during the current transfer window. 

Kiazayid is keen to bolster his squad with one striker, three midfielders, a defender, and a goalkeeper to ensure the team’s competitiveness in the second round of the league.

The coach is determined to avoid a repeat of last season when Tabora United had to endure a nerve-wracking playoff to retain their Premier League status. 

The source acknowledged the management’s commitment to addressing the coach’s concerns: “We are working tirelessly to meet the coach’s needs. The goal is to strengthen every department and secure our place in the league next season without relying on playoffs.”

Tabora United have had an encouraging first half of the 2024/25 Premier League season, sitting fifth on the table with 25 points from 15 matches. 

The team has secured seven wins, four draws, and four losses, including an impressive victory over defending champions Young Africans SC.

The management and technical team are optimistic about building on this momentum as they prepare for the league’s second round. However, they recognize the need to address key weaknesses to maintain their top-five position and push for a strong finish.

After the ongoing Mapinduzi Cup break, Tabora United will resume their Premier League campaign with a challenging set of fixtures. They are set to face Namungo FC, Kagera Sugar FC, and KenGold in their opening matches of the second round.

The management believes that Amonome’s addition, along with other potential signings, will provide the team with the necessary edge to navigate these fixtures successfully.

Tabora United’s efforts to strengthen their squad reflect their ambition to establish themselves as a stable force in Tanzanian football. 

With a solid first-round performance and key reinforcements underway, the club is determined to avoid the relegation dogfight and instead focus on securing a comfortable position in the league standings.