Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Willard Katsande is at the heart of a reported transfer dispute in Zimbabwe, with four CAPS United players said to be caught between Grand Legacy FC and another club.
Katsande, who left his role as head coach of Grand Legacy FC in July after just two months in charge, has been linked in Zimbabwean media to a disagreement over the intended loan destination of the quartet.
Grand Legacy announced at the time that his abrupt resignation was down to “personal reasons” and a desire to pursue a coaching course. However, Katsande later suggested footballing considerations were behind his departure, indicating he believed the squad was not properly balanced.
Loan move reportedly diverted
According to Soccer24 Zimbabwe, the controversy centres on a proposed loan deal that would have seen four CAPS United players join Grand Legacy FC.
The outlet reports that documents clearing the players’ moves were already sent by CAPS United to Grand Legacy FC, and that the players started training with the club last week.
However, Soccer24 Zimbabwe claims sources have suggested Katsande now wants the same four players to link up with Oden FC, where he is reportedly expected to be unveiled in a new role.
The report adds that, after initially training with Grand Legacy, the players have allegedly not reported back for training this week, raising further questions over their immediate future.
Clubs seek solution amid silence from parties
Soccer24 Zimbabwe says the developments have prompted officials at both CAPS United and Grand Legacy FC to try to find a way through the impasse and clarify where the players will be registered.
As of the time of publication, neither Katsande nor any of the clubs mentioned – CAPS United, Grand Legacy FC or Oden FC – had publicly addressed the reports.
The situation remains fluid, with the parties involved expected to continue discussions in an effort to resolve the reported transfer dispute.
Future plans under consideration
Alongside the speculation over the CAPS United players, Katsande’s own next move has been the subject of intense local rumour, with many in Zimbabwean football circles strongly linking him to a swift switch to Oden FC together with the missing players.
However, The Herald Online reports that, despite those rumours, Katsande is still weighing up his options and has not committed to a new club.
He is said to have acknowledged that talks are under way with several teams, but has chosen not to reveal where he is likely to go next.
According to the same report, Premier Soccer League side Simba Bhora and Eastern Region club GreenFuel are among those to have shown strong interest in securing his services.
For now, both Katsande’s future and the fate of the four CAPS United players remain unresolved, with further developments anticipated as negotiations continue.