Burundi international Hussein ‘Tchabalala’ Shaban has signed a six-month deal with Azam Rwanda Premier League champions Rayon Sports with an option of renewal at the end of the season.

The 25-year-old forward is reported have pocked Rwf2m as sign-on fee and will earn a monthly salary of Rwf500, 000. As part of the deal, Rayon Sports paid Rwf5.5m to Amagaju for the six months that were remaining on his contract.

"Hussein will bring a lot of experience to the team. We have given him a short contract, but with an option for a longer deal at the end of the season,” the former APR and Amavubi forward told Saturday Sport.

Speaking about why he chose Rayon Sports over league leaders SC Kiyovu, who were also after his signature, Shaban said, "I chose Rayon Sports because it is a big team. They are champions and they are competitors at the highest level- they will play in Champions league.”

"I am very excited to sign for one of the big clubs in Rwanda. I will try all I can to help the team to perform better in the upcoming competitions. I am here to give my all for the club,” he added.

Shaban scored 13 goals last season for Amagaju FC after spending one year and half with Nyamagabe-based side, however; things have not gone well for him this season, managing just one goal in ten league matches.

Malian striker Ismaira Diarra has also completed his long awaited move to Rayon Sports from DC Motema Pembe of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The 2018 transfer window opened on January 1 and closes on January 31.

Both transfers were confirmed by Rayon Sports head coach Karekezi.

Meanwhile, the club has promoted young players including Felix Lomami, Olivier Habineza (released from APR academy) and Ally Tidjan Ishimwe.

editorial@newtimes.co.rw