One of Nigeria’s two representatives in next season’s Total CAF Confederation Cup (TotalCAFCC) Rivers United are on the verge of pulling off a major transfer coup ahead of the new season, reports www.aclsports.com
The Port Harcourt based side are making a return to continental football for the first time since 2017 when they reached the group stage of the Confederation Cup. They now seem to be putting all hands on deck with a view to having a better representation next season.
ACLSports sources reveal that team’s head coach Stanley Eguma is planning to raid his former employers, Enyimba of Aba for at least two of their most experienced stars.
Enyimba’s first choice goalkeeper and CHAN Super Eagles star Theophilus Afelokhai is Eguma’s prime target and he is ready to make him one of Rivers United’s highest paid players.
Afelokhai, 32, had been in negotiation for a new contract with Enyimba but Rivers United’s interest has made his salary demands more than what the Enyimba hierarchy are willing to offer him. The former Kano Pillars captain is said to be edging closer to a switch to Port Harcourt.
What could be another major deal for United is their interest in Enyimba’s highly rated centre back Ifeanyi Anaemena whom ACLSports sources understand is also keen to enjoy life in the Garden City and has put up an exorbitant salary demand from Enyimba.
Although the People’s Elephant have reinforced their team with the signing of two centre backs, they are unwilling to do away with Anaemena’s experience but may be forced to allow the 28-year old who battled with injuries last season have his wish to leave.
Another Enyimba player who has been linked to the oil-rich Rivers United is club captain Andrew Abalogu whom the People’s Elephant has already declared surplus to requirement.
In the same vein, Rivers United have also registered firm interest in Rangers International’s exceptional midfielder Anthony Msonter Shimaga.
It remains to be seen if Rangers would allow the mightily consistent Shimaga who started all games in all competitions for the Flying Antelopes last season to join a team they perceive as rivals; but they have offered to almost double Shimaga’s current salary at the Enugu club.
Sunday Adetunji, whom we reported was being trailed by four clubs has also been added to Rivers United’s wishlist and they will have to fight out with CAF Champions League campaigners Plateau United and Enyimba for his signature.
