Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Edson Castillo's potential move to Egyptian giants Zamalek FC is currently under threat.
Soccer Laduma has recently reported how Castillo could leave Amakhosi at the end of this season, and have recently linked the midfielder with Zamalek.
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Now, the reason for the latest setback is that the Cairo-based club faces a FIFA transfer ban, as revealed on Thursday.
Siya sources close to both the player and Amakhosi have indicated that the upcoming transfer window may not see any developments regarding Castillo's move, due to Zamalek FC's inability to sign any players at this time.
The sources elaborated on the situation, highlighting the financial challenges Zamalek are facing, which have led to the FIFA sanction.
"It is a hard time for Castillo now. Things don't seem good at all. Yes, Chiefs have tabled an extended stay until June 2027 for the player as part of keeping his value up," said the Siya source.
It is thought that Amakhosi could look to extend his contract so that they can receive a bigger offer for Castillo from abroad in future.
"His move to Zamalek hangs in the balance now since they have been banned by FIFA. But you never know, they could pay their former player and then the pursuit to get Castillo is back on track. However, for now, all that hangs in the balance," the source told Soccer Laduma.
Despite that, this could also open the door for other clubs interested in Castillo.
The transfer ban stems from Zamalek's failure to settle a massive debt with former Moroccan striker Khalid Boutaib. While the ban poses a significant obstacle to Castillo's move, the situation is not deemed entirely hopeless, as future developments could potentially revive the deal, depending on Zamalek's actions regarding their financial obligations.
Moreover, the FIFA ban on Zamalek could have wider implications, affecting other potential signings. South African striker Luther Singh, also targeted by the Cairo-based club, finds his potential move in jeopardy. As previously reported by Soccer Laduma, Singh, alongside Castillo, is on Zamalek FC's radar, and the current ban could similarly disrupt his transfer plans.
Zamalek's history with FIFA bans is not new, as the club faced a similar situation last year. However, that ban was lifted after the club settled its outstanding debts. The current situation places both Castillo's and Singh's futures in uncertainty, as the football community watches closely to see how Zamalek FC navigates its financial and regulatory challenges in the coming months.
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Castillo's tenure at Chiefs has been the subject of much speculation, especially in light of his impressive performances both domestically and internationally. The Venezuelan midfielder, who has become a pivotal figure for the Glamour Boys, scoring five goals across all competitions and securing 26 appearances this season, finds himself at a crossroads.
His contributions have not only solidified his position at Naturena but have also ensured his continued presence in the Venezuela national team, where he has been a regular selection.
Despite these achievements, the winds of change are blowing, with Castillo's future at Chiefs hanging in the balance amid growing interest from clubs abroad.
Chiefs' offer to extend his stay until June 2027, in an effort to preserve his value, also underscores the club's recognition of his talent and contribution to uplift the team during a difficult campaign.
