African powerhouse Zamalek SC will not proceed with the transfer of Tanzanian youngster Clément Mzize, despite earlier talks to bring the Young Africans striker to Cairo during the upcoming summer transfer window, Footy-Africa has exclusively learned.
The Egyptian heavyweights had established direct contact with Mzize, who was reportedly open to a move pending a final agreement between the two clubs. However, Zamalek have now pulled out due to the financial demands from Young Africans.
According to a source at VoMa Sports Management, who represent the player, Young Africans demanded a fee in the region of €1.5 million for the 21-year-old striker—an amount Zamalek’s board considers excessive. The Cairo club was only willing to offer €1 million, payable in two instalments.
“There was an agreement with Mzize and he was ready to move, on condition that Zamalek and Young Africans could agree on a fee. However, that didn’t happen as Young Africans wanted €1.5 million, while Zamalek was only willing to pay €1 million in two batches. At this point, the deal is off unless Young Africans lower their demands,” the source exclusively told Footy-Africa.
While Zamalek have pulled out of the race, other clubs—such as Libya’s Al-Ahly Tripoli and South Africa’s Orlando Pirates—remain long-time admirers of the talented and highly rated forward.
In the current campaign, Mzize has scored 18 goals and provided two assists in just 16 appearances across all competitions. He also netted five goals in six CAF Champions League matches this season. Since joining Young
Africans, he has made 50 appearances, recording 33 goals and nine assists.
On the international stage, Mzize has earned 10 caps for the Tanzanian senior national team, the Taifa Stars, featuring in competitions including the Africa Cup of Nations and World Cup qualifiers.