Polokwane City FC have finally agreed to sell Oswin Appollis to Algerian giants MC Alger after protracted negotiations.
The reigning Algerian champions are in pole position for the South African international, beating competition from top clubs across Africa and domestically for the Polokwane City star.
The final step is for the two clubs to sign a transfer agreement. Thereafter, the player will have to agree to personal terms.
The personal terms are expected to be a smooth process, considering the more challenging hurdle of convincing ‘Rise and Shine’ to let go of their star player has already been overcome. A routine medical will then follow.
The 22-year-old midfielder has been a standout performer for Polokwane City, subsequently earning himself a place in the Bafana Bafana squad that finished third at the 2023 AFCON. Appollis was linked with clubs like Esperance, Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs, Wydad Athletic Club and Zamalek.
The Cape Town-born attacker’s imminent move to MC Alger is seen as a significant step in his career. This will offer him the opportunity to showcase his talent on a bigger stage and compete in continental competitions.
MC Alger are defending champions of Algeria and will be competing in the CAF Champions League next season. The transfer saga surrounding Appollis has been filled with twists and turns. Polokwane City, known for their tough negotiating stance, have rejected advances from Chiefs and Pirates.
WHY OSWIN APPOLLIS DIDN’T START AGAINST SUNDOWNS
The former youth international’s ascent has been meteoric. He burst onto the scene from the first division with Pretoria Callies, and after just one impressive season in the top-flight, he’s already on the cusp of a major international transfer, showcasing his rapid rise to prominence.
Appollis’ absence from the starting line-up in Polokwane City’s recent MTN8 defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns added fuel to the transfer speculation.
Head coach Phuti Mohafe dismissed any transfer-related motives, attributing the decision to tactical considerations. However, the timing of the omission raised eyebrows. It suggests that the club was protecting the player ahead of his imminent departure.
Meanwhile, Polokwane City is notorious for snubbing local offers, prioritising international transfers for their talented players. The club has previously rejected local offers for Appollis and another promising talent, right-back Thabang Matuludi.
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