Golden Arrows are closing in on JDR Stars forward Bongani Cele as they look to bolster their attack ahead of the new season.
Cele’s older brother, Mondli Cele, was a footballer for Maritzburg United who tragically died in a car crash in 2016. At the time, his younger brother was 17 and working towards his football dream.
Now 25, Cele joined the Motsepe Foundation Championship side in 2022 and has spent the last two seasons at the club. He joined the Pretoria side from third-tier outfit Sinenkani FC of Eastern Cape.
FARPost has established that the player could play his football in the DStv Premiership next season. While he has been the subject of interest for many teams in the Motsepe Foundation, there are indications that Arrows have an upper edge.
WHO WILL BONGANI CELE COMPETE WITH
At Arrows, Cele, who is a free agent, would face competition from Lungelo Nguse, Angelo van Rooi, Knox Mutizwa, and Kagiso Malinga.
Cele, who scored two goals for JDR last season, can also be deployed on either wing.
The KZN outfit has also signed former Moroka Swallows right back Keenan Phillips on a two-year deal. The club released the trio of Olufemi Kayode, Siyavuya Ndlovu and Thubelihle Magubane.
Meanwhile, Velemseni Ndwandwe has signed a new contract with Golden Arrows, ending speculation about a potential move to Orlando Pirates. The 28-year-old midfielder had attracted interest from several Gauteng clubs, including Pirates, as his previous contract neared its expiration.
Despite reportedly seeking a new challenge, Ndwandwe rejoined his Arrows teammates for pre-season training two weeks ago. While the club had presented him with improved contract terms a few months prior, the player took his time before committing to the new deal.
RELATED STORY: Ndwandwe stays put: Arrows fend off Pirates interest with new contract
