Stellenbosch FC have secured the signature of highly rated Cape Town Spurs striker Ashley Cupido, beating off competition from Kaizer Chiefs.
The talented striker Cupido has been a standout performer for CT Spurs in recent seasons, attracting interest from several top-flight clubs. Both Stellenbosch and Chiefs were keen to add the striker to their ranks.
Cupido has reportedly been on Chiefs’ radar since the conclusion of the 2022/23 season following his impressive performance. He ended that campaign as the Motsepe Foundation Championship top scorer with 15 goals.
It’s been said that Chiefs expressed interest in acquiring the striker during the current PSL transfer window, which is scheduled to close on September 20th.
However, Stellenbosch FC managed to edge out Amakhosi and convince Cupido to join their ranks for the 2024/25 campaign. He leaves the Urban Warriors following their relegation to the second-tier having played just one season in the top-flight.
‘The Stellies’ released a statement on Tuesday night, confirming that Cupido has penned a long-term deal with the club for an undisclosed fee.
STELLENBOSCH FC SIGN ASHLEY CUPIDO FROM CT SPURS
“Stellenbosch Football Club has secured the permanent signing of Ashley Cupido from Cape Town Spurs in a deal that has seen Mervin Boji move in the opposite direction,” reads the club statement.
“Cupido joins the Club after spending the last four seasons with Spurs, where he scored 31 goals in 121 appearances across all competitions.”
Meanwhile, Stellenbosch CEO Rob Benadie expressed his excitement about the club’s acquisition of Cupido.
Benadie also confidently asserted that Cupido is a player who will integrate into Stellenbosch’s playing style and strategy.
Cupido is a direct replacement for Iqraam Rayners, who recently left Stellenbosch to join the Tshwane giants, Mamelodi Sundowns.
“We are excited to welcome the talented 23-year-old to our ambitious club,” said Benadie. “He is a player who will fit our system well and who we believe has the ability to consistently feature at the top end of the PSL’s goal-scoring charts.”
In addition, Cupido’s arrival in the Cape Winelands coincides with the departure of Mervin Boji, who has finalised a permanent transfer to CT Spurs.
“Mervin is a local hero who we believe will take this opportunity to get more consistent game time and realise his full potential,” declared Benadie.
“He was instrumental in our reserve team winning two DStv Diski Challenge titles, scoring 31 goals in 30 appearances in the competition, and we have no doubt that he will succeed in this challenge.”
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