Roko Prša, the Croatian midfielder who scored the decisive goal in Hamrun Spartans’ title-clinching victory over Birkirkara, appears to be heading for the exit, with his future in Maltese football now uncertain.
Prša’s contract with Hamrun is set to expire at the end of this month, and negotiations over a possible renewal have reportedly collapsed. Sources have told MaltaSport that the player requested a significant financial package to remain at the club, a demand that has so far proven too high for an agreement to be reached.
There has been speculation linking Prša with a move to Żabbar St Patrick as the club prepares for its return to the Premier League. However, no formal talks have taken place between Żabbar and the player’s representatives, and his next destination remains unclear.
It is understood that Żabbar are not the only Maltese club to have expressed interest in the former Croatia Under-21 international, but discussions with all parties have stalled due to the midfielder’s wage demands.
Prša played a key role in Hamrun’s recent domestic success and will be remembered for his crucial strike in the league decider. However, he may not be the only departure from the squad. Sources close to the club have indicated that Brazilian players Jonny Freitas and Rafael Lopes could also be on their way out, as the Spartans prepare for a squad overhaul.
Hamrun are understood to be targeting several high-profile foreign signings, with a particular focus on the Italian market. The club is reportedly eyeing players currently tied to Serie A and Serie B sides, including clubs such as Lecce and Verona, as part of its ambition to build a stronger team ahead of both domestic and European competitions.
In the meantime, the Spartans have made their first move in the transfer window by reaching an agreement to sign Lithuanian international midfielder Domantas Simkus. The 29-year-old, who has 30 senior caps for Lithuania, is set to fill the void left by Freitas.
His signing was confirmed by club president Joseph Portelli during Thursday’s Annual General Meeting. Simkus joins from FA Siauliai, where he made 13 appearances this season, scoring once. His previous clubs include Aalborg BK in Denmark, Zalgiris and Atlantas in Lithuania, FK Sabail in Kazakhstan, Hapoel Kfar Saba in Israel, and NS Mura in Slovenia. He is expected to be the first of nine foreign players to be registered by the club this summer as Hamrun set their sights on defending their Premier League title and mounting a strong challenge in UEFA competitions.
