YOUNG Africans SC, the 2023/2024 NBC Premier League champions, are facing challenges in securing a new contract for their attacking midfielder Stephanie Aziz Ki.

Despite extensive negotiations, Aziz Ki has yet to commit to the club, citing multiple offers from other teams.

Reports indicate that Young Africans have been engaged in discussions with Aziz Ki, but the midfielder has hesitated to sign a new deal. This hesitation is attributed to the various attractive offers he has received, particularly from foreign clubs.

Currently topping the league’s scoring charts for the 2023/24 season with 17 goals, the Burkina Faso international is expected to make a final decision about his future early next month. 

According to sources within the club, the negotiations, led by Young Africans’ president Hersi Said, have been positive but inconclusive.

“Aziz Ki, along with his agent who is also his mother, has had productive talks with Young Africans,” a club insider revealed. “However, he has asked for more time and took the contract with him, promising to sign it later.”

The source further explained that Aziz Ki appears particularly interested in an offer from a South African team. 

“Despite receiving a lucrative new contract from Young Africans, Aziz Ki has yet to sign it. His interest seems to be leaning towards the offer from South Africa, suggesting a potential departure," the insider added.

Contrary to some reports, the source dismissed claims that Aziz Ki is considering offers from other local Tanzanian teams, calling such rumours mere propaganda. 

“The offer from Young Africans is substantial, making it unlikely for Aziz Ki to join another local club. His delay in signing is due to the foreign offers, not local ones,” the source emphasized.

Ali Kamwe, Yanga’s information and communication officer, confirmed that negotiations are ongoing and that Aziz Ki has not yet signed the new contract. 

"I want to assure our fans and members that we are working hard to retain all the players we need for next season. If a player wishes to leave, it will not be to a local team but possibly to a club abroad," Kamwe stated.

Kamwe also reiterated the club’s ambitions for the upcoming season, emphasizing their goal to win the Premier League and improve their performance in the CAF Champions League.

As the negotiations continue, the team’s supporters remain anxious about the potential loss of one of their key players. Aziz Ki’s decision will significantly impact the club’s strategy and performance in the forthcoming seasons.

With Aziz Ki at the helm of their midfield, Young Africans have enjoyed a successful run in the NBC Premier League. His performance has been instrumental in their current standing, making his retention crucial for the club’s future ambitions.

The club's management is keenly aware of the stakes and is doing everything possible to secure Aziz Ki’s services for the coming years. However, the allure of international opportunities, particularly from South Africa, poses a significant challenge.

As the deadline for Aziz Ki’s decision approaches, the tension within the club and among its supporters is palpable. The outcome of these negotiations will not only determine the immediate future of Aziz Ki but also set the tone for Young Africans' strategic direction in the competitive landscape of Tanzanian football.

The coming weeks will be critical as Young Africans await Aziz Ki’s final decision. Whether he chooses to stay with the club or pursue opportunities abroad will have lasting implications on the team’s composition and their quest for glory in both domestic and international competitions.