Portuguese side CS Maritimo are interested in signing Orlando Pirates striker Justin Shonga, according to his agent Karabo Mathang.

The Zambia international, who has struggled for game time this season since the departure of Milutin Sredojevic.

Shonga thus has been looking for a move away from the Soweto giants and his agent has revealed that there is interest from the Primeira Liga in Portugal.

“Yes, there is interest in Justin from Portugal. It is now for the two clubs to negotiate and try and find a transfer deal if there is one,” Mathang told IOL.

“It would be unfair for me to say that [his dream is to go play in Europe] because he is still under contract and has an obligation with his employer.

“Once that contract is fulfilled and honoured, we can then focus on things outside of that Orlando Pirates is a very good club to be employed by.”

Although Shonga has seen limited game time at club level, the 23-year-old remains a regular in the Zambia national team.

“Even if international teams are interested in his services, they must engage the team where he is employed. Until then, he will always be committed to his employer,” Mathang added.

“Even if you have dreams, those are personal. There’s something beautiful about fulfilling that dream. I know his ambition and dreams and I’d prefer to keep that private.”

“When you are at a club, you are a part of the team. It is not about individuals. The coronavirus did affect everyone. Everyone has a fair opportunity now to fight for game time,” she said.

“I don’t think it was more of concern prior to Covid-19, but it was something that he had to work on. He is a phenomenal player. Justin is an international player and respected footballer.

“When his time to play comes, he will deliver. It was important to respect the plans of the club at that time. He had to respect the process. It wasn’t a concern to him, but it was more of a challenge for him to take on.”