Celtic relaunch interest for Chiukepo

South African Premier Soccer League side Bloemfontein Celtic have re-launched their interest in Flames striker Chiukepo Msowoya, who they have invited for trials during the January transfer window.

 Celtic nearly signed Chiukepo during the last window, but the deal fell through forcing the player to return home and sign for his former club Escom United.

 It is reported that Celtic could not pursue Chiukepo’s deal because they had changed their plans and wanted to sign Mduduzi Nyanda instead.

 But reports from South Africa indicate the Free State Province-based team is badly in need of a striker and Chiukepo is the main target.

Soccerladuma.com reported that the team has invited the former Orlando Pirates striker to train with the squad during the January transfer window and allow coach Clinton Larsen and his technical team to have a closer look at him. 

“They wanted to sign him before the closing of the window period, but  management were busy with Mduduzi Nyanda, and now that they need a striker, they want to give Msowoya a chance in January. He is the kind of striker they need at the team right now,” claims a source quoted by Soccer Laduma.

Chiukepo said he has been in contact with the club, although nothing concrete has come up.

“Yes, it is true, we have been talking, but it is a bit premature to comment at this stage.

“I am currently concentrating on regaining my form and match fitness with Escom United after staying for a long time without playing club football,” he said.

In a related development, Larsen has hailed Flames defender Limbikani Mzava who has impressed for his side since making his debut against Ajax Cape Town.

Mzava, signed for the club in July last year but did not play the whole of last season as he was not yet registered.

He also missed the opening games of the league this season and since featuring against Ajax Cape Town, he has been in the starting line-up against Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs and Platinum Stars.

“He is one of the biggest assets we have acquired in recent years. He is young, but very talented and experienced having played at all national team levels.

“He is well behaved and with patience and hard work, he will go places,” said Larsen.