In this edition of Negotiating Behind the Scenes, Nigerian midfielder Ade Jimoh Adeleke shares with KickOff how he ended up at the relegated Motsepe Foundation Championship club, Leruma United—a decision he now regrets.
Adeleke currently plays for the Eswatini club Nsingizini Hotspurs, which is in South Africa for pre-season training.
He parted ways with Leruma last season after the club delayed paying his salary for 12 months.
How did your move to Leruma United happen?
"I was there when the team was relegated from the ABC Motsepe League to the third tier. However, the chairman urged us not to rush to find new clubs, saying there was a case that might help the club bounce back to the ABC Motsepe League immediately. This was in 2023. Before that, I was a free agent."
How did you find out they were interested?
"I went there to train with them on a trial basis. The team was involved in legal disputes with SAFA. Unfortunately, they lost that case, and the chairman promised that he would buy a status in the NFD."
Where did you meet?
"On the day I signed the contract, we met at the club's offices at Sinaba Stadium."
Who was there?
"Actually, Mr. Lerumo Thobejane, the chairman, was not present; it was just me and the manager. I signed a contract for 10 months with an additional optional year."
Was there anything that surprised you during the negotiations?
"The figures they presented were shocking—just too low. Given my experience with the club from lower divisions, I expected to be among the top earners. However, we were informed about the club's financial struggles and lack of sponsorship. It was disappointing."
What would you change?
"I would ask for higher financial rewards. I wouldn’t be as desperate for a job as I was before. I signed out of desperation."