MBABANE – Hub giants Manzini Wanderers have reportedly made a proposal to MulaSport National First Division (NFD) champions, Red Rhinos, to acquire their top-flight status.
By virtue of winning the NFD title, Red Rhinos earned promotion to the MTN Premier League alongside Pigg’s Peak Professionals, while Madlenya secured their place following victory in the promotion and relegation play-offs.
Meanwhile, Manzini Wanderers were relegated after finishing at the foot of the MTN Premier League table. Sisonkhe and Malanti Chiefs were also relegated, while Amawele successfully maintained their status through the play-offs.
Reports reaching this publication indicate that the club’s leadership has formally approached the Lubombo-based side to explore the possibility of acquiring their top-flight status. Well-placed sources allege that meetings have taken place and that discussions are promising, potentially keeping the maroon and white outfit in the premier division.
“Negotiations are at an advanced stage this week, and the parties are looking to sign on the dotted line. To my knowledge, the deal was sealed on Wednesday,” one source claimed.
However, another source clarified that the deal is not yet finalised, as Red Rhinos have demanded a clear strategy regarding the future of the ‘Weslians’. It is understood that Red Rhinos are concerned that Wanderers must demonstrate a sustainable plan to put their house in order, rather than fighting to avoid relegation every season. The reigning NFD champions reportedly fear that if the underlying issues affecting the hub giants are not resolved, the club will find itself in the same precarious position every year.
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