SIMBA Sports Club have officially confirmed the departure of Angolan midfielder Deborah Fernandes, while speculation continues to swirl around the future of Cameroonian central defender Che Fondoh Malone, who is reportedly attracting strong interest from Algerian giants USM Alger.

The Mainland Premier League heavyweights made an official announcement confirming that Fernandes will not be part of the squad for the upcoming 2025/2026 season, following a mutual agreement to part ways.

Fernandes, 25, joined Simba in July 2024 from Zambian side Mutondo Stars on a three-year contract. Brought in as a versatile midfield option capable of operating in several positions across the park, the Angolan was expected to play a key role in fortifying Simba’s midfield depth.

Despite the high expectations and early promise, Fernandes struggled to establish himself in the starting lineup throughout the 2024/2025 campaign. Several factors, including stiff competition for places and adaptation challenges, contributed to his limited impact.

In a statement shared through the club's official communication channels, Simba SC confirmed:

“Simba Sports Club and midfielder Deborah Fernandes have reached a mutual agreement to terminate his contract. We appreciate his contributions and wish him the best in his future endeavors.”

Fernandes' departure adds to a growing list of exits from the Msimbazi Street-based side, as the club undertakes a major squad overhaul in preparation for the new season. The club has so far released or parted ways with several players, including Fabrice Ngoma, Kelvin Kijili, Valentine Nouma, Augustine Okejepha, Hussein Kazi, and long-serving goalkeeper Aishi Manula. Midfielder Omary Omary has been sent out on loan to Mashujaa FC for more playing time.

While Fernandes’ departure is official, uncertainty surrounds the future of Che Fondoh Malone. Sources within Simba SC suggest that the 25-year-old Cameroonian defender may be on the verge of leaving the club, with Algerian Ligue 1 outfit USM Alger believed to be keen on securing his services.

According to reports, USM Alger have already reached personal terms with the player, although no official statement has been released by either club. The deal, if finalized, would mark a significant step in Malone’s career, giving him a fresh challenge in another competitive African league.

Malone joined Simba SC from Cameroon’s Cotton Sports two seasons ago and made an immediate impact during his debut season. His physicality, aerial prowess, and leadership at the back were crucial to the team’s success, earning him praise from fans and pundits alike.

However, his second season at the club was plagued by injuries and inconsistency. The setbacks limited his playing time and affected his form, leading to a diminished role in the first team. Sources indicate that Simba SC have already made the internal decision not to renew his contract, which expired at the end of the 2024/2025 season.

Simba are also reported to have completed the signing of Malone’s replacement, a central defender who is expected to be unveiled in the coming days. Club insiders describe the new signing as a player with strong leadership qualities and the ability to stabilize the defense heading into the new campaign.

Although Malone’s potential move to USM Alger is yet to be confirmed, fans have already begun bidding him farewell on social media, expressing appreciation for his service and wishing him success should the transfer go through.

The ongoing changes at Simba reflect the club’s intent to rebuild a competitive squad capable of challenging both domestically and on the continent. After a disappointing 2024/2025 season in which the club fell short of winning major trophies, Simba’s management is determined to make bold moves in the transfer market to reshape the team.