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Macedonian football giants FC Shkupi have entered the race alongside AFC Leopards in pursuit of Marine FC’s Arthur Gitego, intensifying the competition for the striker’s signature.

Gitego has acknowledged that FC Shkupi, the Macedonian champions, have presented him with a three-year contract offer.

AFC Leopards target decision

However, he stated that no decision has been reached regarding his next move, indicating that discussions are ongoing.

“It is true I have been offered a three-year deal from FK Shkupi but we have not made a decision yet,” Gitego told Times Sport.

The news of FC Shkupi’s interest comes after earlier reports in the month revealed AFC Leopards’ negotiations to secure the services of the Rwandese striker.

Leopards had reportedly submitted an offer for Gitego, with speculation suggesting that Marine FC might consider the deal during the January transfer window to avoid losing him on a free transfer when his contract expires on June 30.

That marked the third attempt within a year by a club to acquire Arthur Gitego. Previously, Georgian side FC Gagra and Tunisia’s CA Bizertin had tried to secure his services, but Marine FC resisted those moves.

Tunisia’s CA Bizertin has also made a bid for the striker, but it seems Gitego is leaning towards a move to Macedonia, where he would have the opportunity to compete in European competitions.

Gitego’s stock has risen notably since his international debut with Amavubi in the 2026 World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe on November 15, 2023. His impressive performances in the Primus National League have further boosted his market value.

AFC Leopards struggles

AFC Leopards, facing challenges in the league, have struggled to score goals, failing to find the back of the net in seven out of their first 16 matches of the 2023/24 season.

With an average of 0.75 goals per match, the team’s head coach, Thomas Trucha, has acknowledged the lack of creativity in front of goal as a significant hurdle this season.

Brian Yakhama is the leading scorer for AFC Leopards with five goals, but the team has managed to score more than one goal in a match on only three occasions during the campaign.