Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)
Host of star players looking for a new home in top flight
THE TRANSFER window closed yesterday, but there’s still a galaxy of Premier Soccer League stars who can still find themselves new homes in the next few weeks or months.
The start of the 2018/19 season has been one of the most exciting windows in recent times, as clubs did some serious business in their quest to bolster their squads.
Orlando Pirates went on a shopping spree as they signed nine players, including Brilliant Khuzwayo and Linda Mntambo. Meanwhile, arch-rivals, Kaizer Chiefs pulled off the surprise signing of Khama Billiat as a free agent, after his contract expired at Mamelodi Sundowns and he opted against penning a new deal. Chiefs also made another marquee signing in Lebogang Manyama.
Sundowns opened their account with the signing of Andile Jali, the Bafana star midfielder joining as a free agent after parting ways with KV Oostende in Belgium.
Downs followed that with the signing of Mosa Lebusa, Lebogang Maboe, Lyle Lakay and Riyaad Pieterse.
Yesterday, Sundowns secured the signature of Phakamani Mahlambi from Al Ahly of Egypt.
Bidvest Wits also made a number of good acquisitions in the likes of Robyn Johannes, Gift Motupa, Vuyo Mere, Bantu Mzwakali and Deon Hotto.
SuperSport United added James Keene, Phumlani Ntshangase, Bongani Khumalo and Washington Arubi to their set up.
The window might be closed but there are some good players who are still searching for a new club, including Tendai Ndoro, Tsepo Masilela, Ayanda Gcaba, Tokelo Rantie, Tefu Mashamaite and Lehlohonolo Maselesa.
They are free agents and can sign anytime if an offer is presented to them.
Ndoro was at the relegated Ajax Cape Town last season, but cut ties at the end of the season after their relegation. Chiefs did make an enquiry about his services, but didn’t pursue it further. He is currently training with Highlands Park.
Ndoro’s agent, Dumi Nkiwani of Dulo Global Sports Management, confirmed they are still in talks with Highlands.
“We have presented our terms and are still waiting for the counter-offer. As soon as we get it, we will look at it and then take it from there,” Nkiwani said when quizzed about the future of the Zimbabwean international.
Masilela is another top footballer who is still clubless after leaving Amakhosi.
The 33-year-old left back has been on top of his game for the past 15 years at club and international level.
According to his agent, Mike Makaab of ProSport International, Chippa United did show interest in Masilela.
“Tsepo is still keen on playing football. He still feels that he has another two seasons left in his legs. I had a long chat with Tsepo and we agreed that it has to be a offer if he is to sign with any club. He is in a great shape. He is over his injury now. Chippa United did show some interest in Tsepo. It was financially a good offer but it was difficult for him to leave Gauteng,” Makaab elaborated.
On the other hand Maselesa recently parted ways with Cape Umoya. His agent, Paul Mitchell of Siyavuma Sports Agency is considering different options.
“We have agreed with Cape Umoya to terminate the contract of Maselesa. He was left with one year on his contract. We are still considering a couple of options. Indian Super League might also be a possibility if we don’t get something in South Africa. He has a good CV which is something that Indian teams always look for,” Mitchell explained.
Gcaba was recently on trials with Highlands Park and they decided against signing him.
Gcaba’s contract was not renewed at Pirates, and it was an identical situation with Mashamaite at SuperSport United. The former Kaizer Chiefs defender is still searching for a new home.
It remains to be seen as to who will sign the experienced duo. Rantie has been out of football for the past six months.
Sundowns and Chiefs were said to be interested in his services, while he has also been linked with an overseas move.
The window might be closed but quality is still available in the market.