Sheriff, Big Bullets open Peter Banda talks

Moldova champions Tiraspol Sheriff and Nyasa Big Bullets have reportedly opened discussions on the extension of Peter Banda’s deal.

Banda joined Sheriff on a six-month loan deal, which will expire in July.

But after the conclusion of the season in Moldova in which Sheriff defended the league title, the club has shown willingness to tie the youngster to a long-term deal.

Sources close to Banda confirmed that despite having more offers from Hungary, Germany and Spain, Sheriff have the first option to sign the talented forward.

“Bullets and Sheriff are discussing and we hope by June 15 everything will be sorted out. He might remain at Sheriff or join another team depending on what will transpire during the discussions,” said the source.

Banda had a good debut season scoring five goals including a hat-trick and providing six assists in 12 games.

However, the youngster refused to comment on the matter, saying he was focusing on Malawi National Football Team match against Tanzania in an international friendly on June 13.

In his debut season, Banda helped Sheriff to defend the league but lost to Sfintul Gheorghe 3-2 on post-match penalties in the Moldovan Cup final on Sunday.

His agent Leonid Istrati was not available for comment. Bullets Chief Administrator Albert Chigoga said he would comment at an appropriate time.

The youngster, who was named TNM Super League player of the season in 2019, is expected to arrive this week for the match against Taifa Stars.

Banda had excused himself from the Flames as he wanted to concentrate on contract negotiations.

But the club released him to represent Malawi during the Fifa Window calendar.