Stellenbosch FC head coach Steve Barker has confirmed the move of Antonio van Wyk to Austria, becoming the sixth exit for the club this transfer window.
Van Wyk emerged as one of the standout players at the club over the last two seasons after coming through the youth ranks. The attacking midfielder has been linked with Gauteng clubs, including Kaizer Chiefs, for quite some time now.
The 22-year-old follows Iqraaam Rayners, Deano Van Rooyen, Qobolwakhe Sibande, Nhlanhla Mgaga and Salifu Colley, who have all left the Cape Winelands side this window.
Steve Barker revealed on Monday afternoon that van Wyk will be moving soon to SV Ried in Austria.
STELLENBOSCH ATTACKING MIDFIELDER VAN WYK SET TO MOVE TO AUSTRIA
“You have to look at this and be proud of what we’re doing as a football club,” said Barker as ‘Stellies prepare to take on Mamelodi Sundowns in the first-leg of the MTN8 semi-finals on Wednesday.
“To see so many players coming through and enhancing their careers going forward. I still believe players like Olwethu Makhanya going to MLS was a really top move for him.
“Antonio Van Wyk is now going to Austria; I believe it will be finalised soon if not already finalised. You have to look at this and say, ‘As a coach, I’m here to [assemble] people and keep everybody’.
“There is time and place for people to move on.”
The Western Cape club could also lose Ismail Toure, who has expressed his burning desire to move to Europe. Fawaaz Basadien and Jayden Adams have also garnered immense interest from Gauteng clubs.
On the other hand, in this window, ‘Stellies’ welcomed Sanele Barns, Omega Mdaka, Lehlohonolo Mojela and Brian Onyango to bolster their squad. Ibraheem Jabaar also returned from a loan spell after spending last season at M. Petah Tikva.
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