Belgian clubs scramble for Nirisarike

AMAVUBI defender Salomon Nirisarike is a hot property in Europe as three Belgian Jupiler league clubs have expressed interest in signing him during the January Transfer Window.

Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Amavubi defender Salomon Nirisarike seen here in action for Rwanda in a past 2014 World Cup qualifier. The New Times; T. Kisambira

AMAVUBI defender Salomon Nirisarike is a hot property in Europe as three Belgian Jupiler league clubs have expressed interest in signing him during the January Transfer Window. Racing Racing Genk, Zulte Waregem and Leuven are eager to splash money for the defender who plies his trade in second division Belgian club Royal Antwerp.The Rubavu-born Nirisarike previously played for Isonga before moving to Royal Antwerp in 2012.  His contract with Royal Antwerp will end next year in July, a feat which could see him dump Antwerp which is currently managed by former Chelsea and Dutch striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink. Speaking to Times Sport recently, Nirisarike said, "I feel much better than before and joining a top premier league side would not be a challenge because I have gained the needed exposure and I am ready to tussle it out with elite footballers,” "I am in good shape with my club and I hope next year, we will be talking a different story,” "I want to play in the first division league because I want to meet new challenges and be able to grow into a professional footballer,” "Before my contract expires next year, I will be in position to know where my next destination will be,” added Nirisarike. Nirisarike’s Royal Antwerp is placed in fifth position in the Belgian second division league with 32 points, nine points behind leaders K.VC.Westerlo who lead the standings. The big centre back signed for Antwerp last year in a reported Euros 80,000 from Sec Academy. He has been a regular for the junior wasps and he has played for Amavubi senior team eight times.