Tanzania giants Simba SC have closed in on securing the signature of Ghanaian striker Michael Sarpong after the latter’s talks with Rayon Sports failed to materialise.

Rayon were looking to re-sign Sarpong after sacking him in April, but the club have reportedly ended their pursuit of the marksman after signing Togolese striker Alex Harllay Nyarko on Friday.

Sarpong saw his contract terminated and fired with immediate effect after protesting the club’s decision to suspend players’ salaries for three months owing to the Covid-19 pandemic. He also allegedly insulted the club’s president Sadate Munyakazi.

Speaking to this publication on Friday, Sarpong confirmed that he had held productive talks with Simba SC and a contract was under development between his agent and the Tanzania champions.

"We have an agreement in place and everything seems to be going smoothly, hopefully the deal can be sealed in the near future. The contract is being worked on between my agent and Simba,” said Sarpong.

"There are just a few minor details we are yet to agree on.”

Sarpong, 24, has been a force to reckon with in domestic football since joining Rayon Sports in September 2018 and he is confident he will replicate the form with Simba.

"I believe in my craft and the ability to succeed anywhere,” he said. "If I sign for Simba, I will make sure to give my best for the club’s success. All I require is a good working environment.”

Sarpong was Rayon Sports’ top-scorer with 16 goals during the 2018-19 Rwanda Premier League as the Blues clinched the 9th league title.