Midfielder Neo Maema has remained in South Africa while the Simba SC squad has already arrived in Kigali, Rwanda, for the CECAFA Kagame Cup tournament. His absence from the travelling squad has raised further questions over his future at the Msimbazi club.
Sources within Simba indicate that talks to sign the midfielder on a permanent deal have been put on hold after both parties failed to reach an agreement quickly.
One of the major challenges is believed to be Maema's personal demands, with the midfielder reportedly seeking a significant improvement in his salary package and various bonuses before committing his future to the club.
However, Simba have not closed the door on retaining the player's services, with head coach Steve Barker showing interest in including Maema in his plans for the upcoming season. The coach has left club officials responsible for completing negotiations with the player.
If an agreement is reached, Maema is expected to join his teammates directly in Rwanda and take part in the CECAFA Kagame Cup, which Simba are using as part of their preparations for the new season.
Simba signed Maema on loan last season from South African giants Mamelodi Sundowns F.C., but his contract with the club has expired. Therefore, if Simba want to retain him, they must complete a permanent transfer rather than continue with a loan arrangement.
Maema was among the players who made a significant contribution to Simba's squad last season, and supporters are now waiting to see whether the club's management can complete the deal before the new campaign begins.
