Stanley Nwabali’s sudden exit from Chippa United has reopened long-running transfer discussions with Tanzanian giants Simba SC, weeks after a potential deal collapsed over valuation and internal reservations.
Chippa United officially confirmed the Super Eagles goalkeeper’s departure earlier today, bringing an abrupt end to his stay with the South African club just months before the expiration of his contract.
The development has revived interest from Simba, who had previously explored a move for the 29-year-old but pulled back after Chippa demanded a reported R6.8 million (around ₦340 million / $367,000) fee.
Nwabali. Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
According to African football journalist Micky Jnr, Simba’s head coach Steve Barker was not convinced the club should pay such a figure for a player with only six months left on his deal, a stance that ultimately stalled negotiations.
Afrika Foot had earlier reported that internal discussions were ongoing in Tanzania over a possible move, but those talks never progressed into a formal bid.
Nwabali, who joined the Chilli Boys from Katsina United in the 2022/23 season, had entered the final half-year of his contract, making him eligible to sign a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs.
Sources now indicate that Simba have reopened talks directly with the goalkeeper’s camp, exploring the possibility of bringing him to Dar es Salaam on a free transfer. No agreement has been reached so far.
Stanley Nwabali. Photo Credit: Chippa/X
The renewed interest comes amid uncertainty in Simba’s goalkeeping department. First-choice shot-stopper Moussa Camara is currently sidelined with a knee injury, prompting the club to act swiftly in the market.
Simba have already secured the services of Mahamadou Tanja Kassila from Nigerien side AS FAN, with plans to deregister Camara to accommodate the new foreign signing.
The move reportedly frustrated the Guinea international, who requested the termination of the remaining six months of his contract with Camara’s future unresolved, Steve Barker’s side has identified Nwabali as an ideal long-term replacement.
Stanley Nwabali celebrates with his Chippa United teammates. Photo Credit: PSL/X
In a statement released earlier today, Chippa United said:
“We would like to sincerely thank Stanley Nwabali for the years of service, commitment, and professionalism he has shown during his time at Chippa United Football Club. His contribution to the club will always be appreciated.”
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Nwabali’s availability is expected to attract significant interest. He played a key role in Nigeria’s run to a bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), keeping four clean sheets in six matches.
Nwabali. Photo Credit: Imago
He has previously been linked with moves to Morocco’s Raja Club Athletic, Kaizer Chiefs, Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ettifaq, and English Championship side Queens Park Rangers.
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Nwabali is now a free agent and can choose his next destination without club to club talks, Simba may yet return to the negotiating table under very different terms.
