Zimbabwe’s number one goalkeeper has snubbed advances from two South African Premiership clubs, opting to extend his contract with Chicken Inn FC.

Donovan Bernard, emerged as one most sought after Zimbabwe players, with two South African Premiership clubs targeting him. Zimbabwe’s number one goalkeeper has been consistent in the the Zimbabwe PSL.

The 28-year-old was also impressive for the country during two matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers where Zimbabwe played against Rwanda and Nigeria. He played well in both matches and was named Man of the match in the goalless draw against Rwanda.

As a result, Polokwane City FC were aiming to bolster their squad by signing the Chicken Inn FC goalkeeper during the January transfer window. SuperSport United are also seeking to add depth to it’s goalkeeping department which has Ricardo Goss and Washington Arubi. For Matsatsantsa, Bernard is viewed as a potential long-term solution for their goalkeeping problems.

However both, Polokwane City and SuperSport United will have to dig deep into their pockets if they are to lure him. Bernard’s agent, Gibson Mahachi, said that they have already renewed the player’s contract with Chicken Inn FC. The Bulawayo side offered him a new deal ahead of the coming season, which starts in March 2024.

“Yes, there are inquiries. Everything is still premature. But for now, I can confirm that we extended his contract with Chicken Inn,” Mahachi said.
“Alot of clubs want him, two from South Africa but now they will have to approach Chicken Inn FC.
“But as we speak, all negotiations are still premature, but maybe we will have something more tangible from South African clubs in January.”
Earlier this year, Bernard came close to signing for Tshakuma Tsha Madzivandila but nothing materialised.