Portuguese Side Maritimo Close Out Shonga Deal

Ducor Sports can reveal that Portuguese Primeira Liga side CS Maritimo have officially submitted an offer to Orlando Pirates for the services of Zambian striker Justin Shonga.

Maritimo have been chasing the Chipolopolo forward for the last five weeks and now have their best chance of securing the move following unconfirmed reports that the Buccaneers are planning to let the striker go.

The 23-year-old forward has been with the Sea Robbers for the past two seasons and has been one of their top players over the last two years.

According to a reliable informant, Orlando Pirates are reportedly asking for US$500,000, but the player is yet to discuss personal terms with “The Lions of Almirante Reis” and that has held up the deal.

“Shonga is leaving,” a source close to Pirates confirmed to Ducor Sports.

“There are two clubs, CS Maritimo and Eibar, which are interested. But Maritimo look like they will finally get him now unless something unexpected happens.”

Shonga scored eight goals in all competitions in the PSL last season, finishing as the second-highest scorer for Bucs in the 2018/19 campaign.

But the current season has not been good for the marksman as he has made only eight appearances in the Premier Soccer League, starting three of the games.

Shonga joined the Sea Robbers in September 2017 from Zambian side Nkwazi FC having been linked with Mamelodi Sundowns.