Luton Keep Marvelous Nakamba But Release Chelsea Legend and Rising Zimbabwean Prospect

Luton Keep Marvelous Nakamba But Release Chelsea Legend and Rising Zimbabwean Prospect

Luton Town has confirmed that Zimbabwe international Marvelous Nakamba will remain at the club for the 2025/26 season, entering the final year of his contract.

Luton Keep Marvelous Nakamba

Nakamba’s deal is set to expire in June 2026. The 30-year-old defensive midfielder has been an important figure for Luton since arriving on loan from Aston Villa in January 2023. He later signed a permanent three-year contract during the summer transfer window of the same year.

However, with Luton Town now relegated from the Championship to League One following the 2024/25 season, questions remain over whether Nakamba will stay until the end of his contract. Given his top-flight experience with Aston Villa and Belgian giants Club Brugge, he could draw interest from clubs in higher divisions.

Luton Releases Young Striker Matthew Takawira

Luton’s retained list also confirmed the departure of 18-year-old academy striker Matthew Takawira. Born in England and eligible to represent Zimbabwe, Takawira joined the club’s youth ranks at the age of 14 but has now been released following the expiry of his scholarship deal.

Known for his pace and attacking potential, Takawira struggled to secure a regular place in the Under-18s’ starting lineup. He is now expected to explore opportunities at other clubs or football academies to continue his development.

Also read: Zimbabwe Star Marvelous Nakamba’s Luton Town Suffers Double Relegation, Makes Unwanted History

Senior Departures Include Tim Krul and Victor Moses

Other notable names leaving Luton include veteran goalkeeper Tim Krul and former Chelsea winger Victor Moses, both of whom brought Premier League pedigree to the squad. Krul, 37, and Moses, 34, boast over 440 Premier League appearances between them, with Moses having also won a league title at Chelsea.

Long-serving left-back Amari’i Bell, who spent four years at the club, and on-loan reserve goalkeeper Jameson Horlick are also departing.

In a statement, Luton Town expressed gratitude to the outgoing players:

“We would like to thank Kal, Tim, Victor, Jameson and Josh immensely for their contribution to the club this season and wish them well for their future careers.”