Sarupinda’s Manica Diamonds move “stalls” as AMV make him captain to keep prized midfielder

Africa Mineral Ventures Football Club midfielder Blessing Sarupinda could be on his way to Premier Soccer League side Manica Diamonds Football Club, but the Rusape-based side has moved to block the transfer by handing him the captain’s armband, Fanzone has learnt.

According to a high-placed source at Manica Diamonds, Sarupinda agreed to join the Mutare side months ago and was even given US$5000 upfront so that he would move when the mid-season window opens. “The agreement was there and the money was paid to secure him,” the source told Fanzone.

However, sources close to AMV revealed to Fanzone that the hierarchy got wind of the approach.

Their response was to elevate the midfielder to be the captain of the squad, a position that comes with an incentive of increased remuneration. “We can not lose our best player,” an AMV source said. “So we made him captain and improved his package to show we value him.”

The move is understood to be aimed at warding off Manica Diamonds and keeping their prized asset.

Sarupinda has been in blistering form for AMV this season.

He is currently joint top goalscorer in the Pacific Storm Eastern Region Soccer League with 9 goals, level with Munashe Nandolo of Grand Legacy FC.

His form has made him one of the most sought-after players outside the PSL.

The Mutare-based side are also reshaping, they recently appointed former Dynamos FC and Telone FC coach Herbert “Jompano” Maruwa as their substantive head coach a few days ago.

For now, the former CAPS United midfielder remains an AMV player and captain. “He is focused on helping the team and wearing the armband with pride,” the AMV source added.

It remains to be seen where the 9-goal midfielder will be when the winter transfer window opens.