Defending TNM Super League champions Silver Strikers will continue their campaign without star midfielder Chimwemwe ‘Gatusso’ Idana, who has completed a big-money transfer to Zambian Super League side Zanaco FC.

Idana, the 2020/21 Player of the Season with FCB Nyasa Big Bullets, made an emotional farewell after starring in Silver’s 3-0 Super League victory over Karonga United on Wednesday, where he was named player of the match.

Silver Strikers Chief Executive Officer Patrick Chimimba confirmed Idana has agreed a two-year deal with Zanaco, keeping him at the Zambian club until 2027.

“We are proud of what Chimwemwe has achieved with us. He has been a key part of our project, and while we will certainly miss him, we could not stand in his way," said Chimimba.

Although Chimimba did not disclose the transfer fee, sources indicate that the Central Bankers have negotiated around K45 million for the midfielder, a remarkable figure given Idana had just two months left on his contract.

Idana joined Silver Strikers in 2023 on loan from Tanzanian side Mbeya FC before signing a permanent contract later that year. His impact was immediate, helping the Area 47-based side end their 11-year championship drought by clinching the TNM Super League title last season.

“I want to thank Silver Strikers for believing in me. The supporters, my teammates and the coaches made my time here incredible. I will forever be grateful, but now it’s time to embrace a new challenge," Idana said in his farewell remarks.

Silver Strikers head coach Peter Mgangira acknowledged Idana’s contribution but insisted the team would cope in his absence.

“Idana was an integral part of our midfield, however, we have built a squad with depth, and I am confident other players will rise to the occasion as we continue with our games this season,” said Mgangira.

Talking to Sam Banda on Zodiak Radio's Soccer Show program, renowned football analyst "Grandmaster" Charles Nyirenda praised Idana’s move, describing it as a valuable opportunity for the midfielder to grow his career on the international stage.

“He is a top-quality player and Zanaco made a smart decision signing him. His level of consistency and leadership will serve him well in Zambia,” Nyirenda said.

Idana, who began his senior career at FCB Nyasa Big Bullets after graduating from their reserves in 2017, featured for Malawi’s national team, the Flames, across multiple campaigns.

He left for Zambia on Tuesday morning via Kamuzu International Airport, where he will join fellow Malawians Chawanangwa Kaonga and Robert Saizi at Zanaco.