Kaizer Chiefs Initiates Contract Talks with Edmilson Dove
Kaizer Chiefs, a professional football club based in South Africa, has reportedly started negotiations to extend Edmilson Dove’s contract, one of their centre-backs.
Dove, who joined the club as a free agent mid-season, had to wait for a while before making his debut.
However, he eventually established himself as a regular starter in the team’s defence, playing alongside Zitha Kwinika and Siyabonga Ngezana.
Chiefs Coach Arthur Zwane’s Concerns
Before the start of the season, Chiefs coach, Arthur Zwane, expressed his concerns about the club’s need for a left-sided centre-back to balance the team’s defence.
Although the club had recently signed Kwinika for the right side of the defence, Zwane had only Austin Dube for the left side.
It soon became evident that Zwane had little faith in Dube, and he decided to bring in Dove, who had been released by Cape Town City.
Dove’s Performance
After regaining his fitness, Dove proved to be a valuable addition to the team’s defence.
He produced impressive performances in crucial games, including the Soweto derby, where he was named Man of the Match against Orlando Pirates.
As a result, Chiefs management appears to be convinced of Dove’s long-term future at the club and has initiated negotiations to extend his contract.
Contract Negotiations
According to Soccer-Laduma, the club has offered Dove a two-year deal, which will run from June 2024 to June 2026.
However, the negotiations are ongoing, and the club wants to secure Dove’s signature before December, to avoid losing him for free.
This is because his current contract expires in June 2024, and if a new deal is not agreed upon by then, he will be free to negotiate with other teams.
Incoming Centre-Backs
In addition to Dove, Chiefs is reportedly set to sign two more centre-backs, Thathoyone Ditlokhwe and Given Msimango, to strengthen their squad for the new season.
Commentary
Edmilson Dove’s addition to the Kaizer Chiefs defence was a game-changer for the club, and his performances have convinced management of his long-term value to the team.
The ongoing contract negotiations are a testament to this fact.
However, with the arrival of two more centre-backs, the competition for places in the starting lineup will become fiercer, and Dove will need to maintain his form to keep his place in the team.