Yanga advanced in talks to sign Chippa United forward Justice Figuareido

Mngqithi recently took charge of the Dar es Salaam outfit and has already begun identifying transfer targets to strengthen his squad ahead of the new season – the public broadcaster understands Figuareido was among the players high on his wishlist.

The Eswatini international joined Chippa from Richards Bay ahead of last season and established himself as one of the Chilli Boys' key attacking players, contributing important goals and assists as the club secured its Betway Premiership status.

Indications are that there is now a verbal agreement between Yanga and Chippa, with Figuareido's representatives given permission to negotiate personal terms. 

While the finer details are still being finalised and no contracts have been signed, the deal is understood to be at an advanced stage.

Should the move be completed, Figuareido is expected to play an important role for Yanga in both the Tanzanian Premier League and the CAF Champions League as the club looks to strengthen its bid for continental success.

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Mngqithi brings vast CAF Champions League experience, having won the competition as Pitso Mosimane's assistant at Mamelodi Sundowns in 2016. He also impressed during his spell at Golden Arrows, guiding the club to a sixth-place finish and MTN8 qualification last season.

But his exit at the KZN club came as a surprise following what is understood to be budget constraints that made it difficult for the club to extend his contract beyond the previous campaign to build on what was achieved. 

The former Sundowns coach has also assembled a familiar technical team, including former Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Kagisho Dikgacoi as assistant coach and Greg Etafia as goalkeeper coach.

All indications are that Yanga are closing in on securing Figuareido's signature.