Harambee Stars ace Were extends stay with Zesco United as Akumu leaves

Harambee Stars striker Jesse Jackson Were has extended his stay with Zesco United for two more years.

The Team Ya Ziko confirmed on Thursday in a statement the former Tusker FC striker has renewed his stay with the Zambian champions until 2023.

“We are delighted to announce Jesse Were has extended his stay with us for the next two years,” the club said in a statement signed by Media Officer Desmond Kaotongo.

“Were has been a key part of this football club’s success as such we are extremely delighted he has made the right decision to be with us for the next two more years.”

Were’s contract with the club came to an end on December 31, 2019.

Meanwhile, the club has confirmed the departure of Kenyan midfielder Anthony Akumu whose contract came to an end in December 2019.

“It is with deep regret we announce the departure of Kenyan midfielder Anthony Akumu. The club made a lot of effort to extend Akumu’s contract, unfortunately, the two parties could not reach an agreement.

“We wish to take this opportunity to thank Akumu for his immense contribution to the success of Zesco United.”

Akumu was one of Zesco's key players for years, and he was also instrumental in the Zambian side reaching the group stage of the Caf Champions League.

The latest move could hand Kaizer Chiefs a lifeline as Akumu is one of their reported targets. Reports that Chiefs wanted to sign the former Gor Mahia midfielder surfaced toward the end of 2019, and this was the second time he had been linked with a move to the South African giants.

The Kenyan player plays as a defensive midfielder and is seen as a possible long-term replacement for Willard Katsande who is in the twilight of his career.

Meanwhile, Zesco United have sealed the signing of Congolese striker Chris Mugalu on a two-year contract. The club’s CEO Richard Mulenga disclosed they reached an agreement with Mugalu in July 2019.

“It is with great excitement we announce the signing of Chris Mugalu on a two-year contract. Mugalu adds to a number of marquee signing that Zesco United has made in recent years. We are positive Mugalu will add great firepower to our striking force," Mulenga confirmed.

Mugalu is expected to join the club this month subject to medical examinations.