Chippa United close in on former Marumo Gallants midfielder Bance

Chippa United are moving closer to signing former Marumo Gallants midfielder Ibrahim Bance, with negotiations for the Burkina Faso international understood to be progressing. The 25-year-old is currently a free agent after his Gallants contract expired at the end of last season.

Bance joined Gallants from Stade d’Abidjan, the reigning champions of the Ivorian league at the time, and quickly established himself in South Africa. His performances in midfield made him one of the club’s standout players during the campaign.

The midfielder’s representative, Mike Makaab of ProSport International, confirmed that Chippa are among the clubs in discussions for Bance. He also indicated that talks with the Eastern Cape club have advanced, although other teams remain involved in negotiations.

Bance’s previous experience includes spells with ASEC Mimosas, Sweden’s Helsingborgs IF and Real Monarchs in the United States. At Gallants, he operated as a technically capable defensive midfielder and became an important part of the team after adapting to the PSL.

He was also included in the Gallants squad that reached the Carling Knockout final. Orlando Pirates won that match, and Bance’s availability as a free agent after the season ended added to the surprise surrounding his departure from the club.

A move to Chippa would give coach Brandon Truter another midfield option after the club strengthened that area with Mali midfielder Daba Diakité and Muhammad Carrim, who joined after playing in Belgium. Chippa also completed the permanent signing of Goodman Mosele from Orlando Pirates.

No agreement has yet been completed, but the progress of the discussions places Chippa in a strong position as Bance considers his next step in the Premier Soccer League.