Joao Mawete is no longer on the books of Ħamrun Spartans after an agreement was reached for the club to rescind his contract.

Joe Borg, the Ħamrun spokesman, told The Times that the committee had accepted the Portuguese's request to return to his homeland for family reasons.

Mawete joined the Spartans in November. During his short spell here, the former Benfica and Braga striker scored four goals.

The Spartans are looking to replace Mawete in their squad for the rest of the season. However, with the transfer window closed, they are seeking permission from the Malta FA to sign another forward, from Nigeria.

Ħamrun are not the only Relegation Pool strugglers looking to sign new players. In fact, the Malta FA was also due to evaluate a similar request from Floriana FC last night as the Greens want to part with Russian Victor Zlydarev and sign Michael Ghebru, the German striker who a few weeks ago was here with Ferencvaros for a training camp.

Meanwhile, Spartak Nalchik are set to step up their efforts to secure the services of Sylvano Comvalius. Informed sources told The Times that the Russian club were expected to contact Birkirkara over the possibility of taking the Dutch forward on a six-month loan.

Comvalius joined Spartak Nalchik pre-season training base in Antalya on two separate occasions this year.

However, the Stripes, currently joint leaders in the Premier League standings, seem reluctant to part with Comvalius at this crucial stage of the season. He has been a central figure in the club's quest for the league title, scoring 12 goals in 19 matches.