YOUNG Africans (Yanga) have formally opened contract renewal negotiations with their vice-captain and key central defender, Dickson Job, whose current deal is set to expire at the end of the 2024/25 season.

Sources close to the club confirmed earlier this week that a meeting was held between the Jangwani Street-based side’s officials and representatives of the defender. Preliminary agreements have already been reached, though both parties have opted to take additional time to carefully review specific terms and clauses in the proposed contract before signing.

Job (pictured) is regarded as one of the most reliable figures in Young Africans’ defensive line and has been instrumental in the club’s successful campaign this season. His leadership and consistency have earned him admiration from both the technical bench and fans across the country.

Despite receiving interest from rival clubs, notably archrivals Simba SC, Job has demonstrated loyalty and commitment to Young Africans by prioritizing talks with the Jangwani Street-based club. 

It is believed that the player has turned down initial approaches from other suitors as he awaits finalization of his new deal with the reigning champions. Insiders have revealed that one of the soccer giants is monitoring the situation closely and may be prepared to swoop in should the contract renewal process with Young Africans stall. The Msimbazi Street-based side  are reportedly eager to strengthen their backline and view Job as a potential key signing for the upcoming season.

If Young Africans successfully secures Job’s signature on a new deal, he will join the ranks of players such as Pacome Zouzoua and Maxi Nzengeli, who recently extended their contracts with the club as part of a broader plan to maintain squad continuity and competitiveness.

Young Africans’ head of media and communications, Ali Kamwe, affirmed the club’s intention to retain all players deemed crucial by the technical bench. He emphasized that the renewal of expiring contracts is part of a long-term strategy to ensure the team remains strong for both domestic and continental competitions.

“We are in the process of renewing contracts for players whose current deals are nearing an end. Our goal is to retain the core of the team that has delivered consistent success, and we are working closely with the technical team to identify key individuals who are essential for our future plans,” said Kamwe.

The move reflects Young Africans’ commitment to building a robust and cohesive squad capable of challenging for honours both in Tanzania and across Africa, as they continue to chase glory in the CAF Champions League and the Mainland Premier League.

However, while progress has been made with Job and others, uncertainty surrounds the future of Ugandan midfielder Khalid Aucho. The experienced defensive midfielder is yet to begin formal talks with the club regarding a contract extension, and his current deal is also set to expire at the end of the season.

Aucho, who has been a vital figure in Young Africans midfield for the past four seasons, could potentially become a free agent if no agreement is reached before the end of the campaign. 

Club sources suggest that his long-term future with the team is in doubt, particularly in light of plans to revamp the midfield department.

Young Africans are believed to be targeting a younger defensive midfielder as part of its squad rejuvenation project, a decision possibly influenced by Aucho’s recurring injury problems that have kept him out of several crucial matches in recent seasons. 

These injury concerns have reportedly prompted internal discussions about his long-term role in the team. Despite these challenges, when fit, Aucho remains a fan favourite and a dependable presence in the heart of midfield. Reports indicate that Young Africans may still offer him a one-year extension as a show of faith and to provide depth in the midfield position.

The coming weeks will be crucial as the club balances retaining experienced players while also injecting fresh talent into the squad.  Young Africans’ efforts in managing player contracts underscore the club’s ambition to remain competitive at all levels. With the transfer window approaching, decisions made now will likely shape the trajectory of the club for seasons to come.