Simba Sports Club have denied making an approach for Zambian International Star Justin Shonga.

The Tanzanian club have been linked with Shonga with several media outlets in Zambia reporting in the last few weeks that an approach has been made for the Orlando Pirates man.

Justin Shonga has struggled at Pirates since Josef Zinnbauer took over the reigns at the Soweto based club.

“I have also read the same reports on social media. It is obvious that speculation is rife during this time of the year as we are nearing the June/July transfer window,” Simba CEO Senzo Mbatha told Soccer Laduma.

“Officially, as the club [Simba SC], we have not been in contact with the player or his club [Orlando Pirates] for his services.

“We are currently focusing on our players whose contracts are about to expire at the end of the current season. We are trying to tie up those,” Mbatha added.

Justin Shonga joined the SeabRobbers in 2017 from Nkwazi and was an instant hit with Pirates faithful.

His performance has dwindled netting only 10 goals in 46 appearances.

And Mbatha said his club is looking to model itself to the big boys in South African Football.

“From a popularity and support point of view, Simba is a well-supported club in the region. In terms of infrastructure, Simba is not far off,” Mbatha is quoted by Kick Off.

“We have our training site, MoSimba Arena, with both an artificial and natural pitch. Simba also has a training camp site, which is of a high level.

“Simba also has nine registered foreign players, which means we are competing well in the transfer market.

“However, in terms of monetary value, Simba can’t be compared to Pirates and Chiefs. Simba has a lot to learn from the two South African teams.”

Kelvin Trudeau Musako

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