The future of attacking midfielder Neo Maema at Simba SC remains uncertain, with talks over a contract extension failing to produce an agreement so far.
After his one-year contract expired, Simba's management had hoped to retain the services of the South African midfielder. However, those plans have been complicated after Mamelodi Sundowns activated a clause to extend the player's contract by two years.
Sources close to the club indicate that Simba head coach Steve Barker still wants Maema as an important part of his squad for the upcoming season. Barker believes the midfielder's quality and experience can help Simba compete in both domestic and international competitions.
Following Sundowns' decision, Simba will have to enter fresh negotiations with the South African champions if they want to keep Maema. However, the player's salary demands have emerged as a major obstacle in reaching an agreement.
Maema is among Simba's highest-paid players, forcing the club's management to carefully evaluate the situation before making a final decision on his future.
The midfielder is currently in South Africa while Simba continue their preparations for the new season through the CECAFA Kagame Cup tournament being held in Kigali, Rwanda.
Meanwhile, Simba have already strengthened their attacking options by signing attacking midfielder Ibrahim Jabeer from Stellenbosch FC. Jabeer's arrival appears to have reduced the pressure on the club to retain Maema, particularly due to the high costs involved in completing a new deal.
Jabeer is capable of performing roles similar to those previously handled by Maema, although Barker is still keen to have both players available in his squad to increase competition and quality ahead of the new season.
