MBABANE – Forward Justice ‘Figa’ Figuareido is closing in on a move to Tanzanian giants Young Africans following reported breakthrough talks with Chippa United.
According to SABC Sport, Yanga have stepped up their pursuit of the Sihlangu forward following the appointment of former Mamelodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi. Mngqithi has identified Figuareido as one of his priority transfer targets ahead of the new season.
The publication reports that Mngqithi met Figuareido last Saturday as the Dar es Salaam giants intensified efforts to lure the striker to Tanzania. However, Figuareido insists he is not aware of the developments.
Figuareido joined Chippa United from Richards Bay before the start of last season on a two-year contract and quickly established himself as one of the Chilli Boys’ most influential attacking players. His goals and assists played a key role in helping the club retain its Betway Premiership status.
Reports indicate that Yanga and Chippa have now reached a verbal agreement, with Figuareido’s representatives granted permission to negotiate personal terms. Although contracts have not yet been signed, the transfer is understood to be at an advanced stage.
Should the deal be concluded, the Eswatini international is expected to feature in the Tanzanian Premier League and the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League as Yanga strengthen their squad for another domestic and continental title challenge.
The move would also see Figuareido become only the second Eswatini player to feature in Tanzania’s top flight after Banele ‘Pupu’ Sikhondze, who had a stint with Tabora United before they rebranded to TRA United.
Yanga, led by African Club Association (ACA) Chairman Hersi Said, are rebuilding under Mngqithi, with several departures expected during the current transfer window. Alongside Richards Bay defender Thulani Gumede, Figuareido is reportedly among the coach’s preferred reinforcements.
Despite a slight drop in his estimated market value, Figuareido remains one of Eswatini’s most sought-after football exports. According to Transfermarkt, the striker is currently valued at €400 000 (about E7.5 million), down from €500 000 (around E10 million) last year.
Yanga have already strengthened their squad with the arrivals of Juma Abushiri and Hussein Mihambo. Meanwhile, South Africa’s Kaizer Chiefs have also been active in the market, completing the signing of Khanyisa Mayo from Algerian side CR Belouizdad.
