Stellenbosch FC are reportedly eyeing a big money splash for a Cape Town Spurs duo following the club’s relegation.
Stellenbosch is guaranteed a top-three finish in the 2023/24 DStv Premiership, securing themselves continental football next season.
Currently in second place with an unreachable 50 points for most teams, only Orlando Pirates could overtake them. With two games to go, Pirates have amassed 49 points.
The Cape Winelands outfit is already making moves to strengthen its squad for next season’s CAF Club competition following their impressive qualification.
The club has already signed Richards Bay star midfielder Sanele Barns on a pre-contract, with his official arrival expected at the end of the current season.
Barns, known for his exceptional midfield control and playmaking abilities, is anticipated to bring a new dimension to Stellenbosch’s midfield.
However, the club is not stopping there. They are reportedly eyeing two Spurs players to bolster their squad for the demanding continental tournament.
This move signifies Stellies’ ambition to build upon their previous successes and further strengthen their presence in the top tier of South African football.
The potential loss of two key players will be a blow for Spurs, but the significant financial injection could prove crucial as they plan for their immediate return to the top flight.
WHICH CT SPURS DUO IS STELLENBOSCH FC EYEING?
The Steve Barker-coached side is reportedly eyeing a potential double swoop for Spurs’ promising duo, Rushwin Dortley and Asenele Velebayi.
Dortley, a 22-year-old left-footed defender, and Velebayi, a 21-year-old winger, have been standout performers for the Urban Warriors despite their team’s struggles this season.
Velebayi is a versatile winger with raw talent and can play on either side of the pitch. His speed and eye for goal has attracted the attention of two other DStv Premiership teams.
“Velebayi is on the radar of three DStv Premiership teams, but Stellenbosch is the one that has made their intentions clear. And from a development point of view, there’s a feeling from his management team that Stellies could be the right club for him,” a source told FARPost.
Interestingly, the club tried to sign him in the last transfer window in January, and Spurs were willing to listen. However, the deal reportedly collapsed as Ernst Middendorp was eager to use him.
Dortley is comfortable playing centrally and out wide. His composure under pressure and tactical awareness has made him a standout player, attracting interest from top clubs like Kaizer Chiefs.
VALUABLE ADDITIONS
He made 24 league appearances this season and played in two cup matches.
The duo, each with two years remaining on their contracts, would be eager to make a switch.
However, prising them away from Spurs won’t be straightforward. Stellenbosch would likely have to dig deep into their pockets, with a combined transfer fee in the region of millions of rand expected for the pair.
Despite the financial implications, Stellenbosch seems determined to secure the services of these young talents, viewing them as valuable additions to bolster their squad for the upcoming season.
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