SIMBA SC have taken a firm stance in the current transfer window, rejecting a lucrative offer from South Africa’s Kaizer Chiefs for star striker Kibu Denis, as the club focuses on retaining its core squad ahead of next season’s domestic and international campaigns.

According to reliable sources within the club, Kaizer Chiefs tabled an official bid exceeding TZS 500 million for the 24-year-old striker (pictured), but Simba swiftly declined the offer, signaling their intent to keep hold of their key players. 

The decision comes amid growing interest in the Msimbazi Street-based club’s top performers following an impressive run to the CAF Confederation Cup final.

Kibu has been a standout figure for Simba this season, particularly in the CAF Confederation Cup where he netted three crucial goals. His attacking contributions were instrumental in helping Simba reach their first-ever final in the competition. 

He shared the club’s top scorer status in the tournament with Ivorian forward Jean Charles Ahoua, who also scored three goals.

Both players have caught the attention of several scouts and clubs across Africa, with Kaizer Chiefs reportedly monitoring their progress closely. 

The South African Premier Soccer League (PSL) side has been linked with both Kibu and Ahoua, and their interest intensified recently when Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi made a discreet trip to Tanzania.

Nabi was spotted attending a recent Mainland Premier League fixture between Simba and Singida Black Stars at KMC Complex, a match that Simba won 1-0. His presence in the stands fueled speculation that he was there on a scouting mission, specifically targeting the two Simba forwards.

While an official offer has only been submitted for Kibu so far, it is believed that Kaizer Chiefs may soon follow up with a bid for Ahoua, who is currently the leading scorer in the Premier League with 15 goals. 

With just three matches remaining in the league season, Ahoua is on course to claim the Golden Boot and remains in strong contention for the league’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) award.

If Ahoua wins the MVP award this season, he would make history by claiming the prestigious individual accolade in two different leagues in consecutive seasons. 

The Ivorian was named MVP in the Ivorian Ligue 1 last season while playing for Stella Club d’Adjamé, highlighting his consistency and quality.

Ahoua has been directly involved in 23 goals this league campaign, combining 15 goals with eight assists. His offensive output makes him the most productive player in the Simba squad. 

He is followed closely by fellow forwards Steven Mukwala and Lionel Ateba, both of whom have contributed to 15 goals each.

Despite mounting interest from abroad, Simba have no intention of selling either Kibu or Ahoua in the current transfer window. 

The club’s leadership is keen on keeping the core of the squad intact, particularly as they aim to build on this season’s achievements and mount a stronger challenge for both domestic silverware and continental titles next season.

Kibu, who signed a two-year contract at the beginning of the current season, still has one year left on his deal with the Msimbazi Reds. 

Ahoua, on the other hand, has two more years remaining on his contract. 

The club’s management believes that their presence will be crucial as Simba seek to consolidate their dominance in Tanzanian football and push for greater success on the African stage.

“We are building a team for long-term success, and that means keeping our most valuable players,” a Simba official was quoted as saying. “We are not in the business of selling our best assets, especially not at a time when the team is gelling and showing real promise.”

This firm stance reflects Simba’s broader strategy of sustained growth and competitiveness. The club has made considerable investments in player development, technical staff, and infrastructure. Their ambition is clear to not only dominate the Premier League but to also establish themselves as regular contenders in CAF competitions.

With their reputation rising across the continent, interest in Simba’s players is only expected to grow. However, the club’s refusal to entertain offers for Kibu and Ahoua sends a powerful message: Simba are no longer just a stepping-stone club they are a destination club with big ambitions.

As the transfer window progresses, all eyes will be on whether other clubs can tempt Simba into negotiations. For now, however, the Msimbazi Reds appear fully focused on continuity, squad cohesion, and preparing for another shot at continental glory next season.