New deal on the table for Bongokuhle Hlongwane amidst German interest
With interest from the German Bundesliga, MLS side Minnesota United look set to secure the future of South African international Bongokuhle Hlongwane.
Hlongwane’s initial two-year deal expired in December. The club triggered the extension option, which ends in December 2025.
A Bundesliga side has reportedly entered the fray, hoping to snap up the Bafana Bafana star. However, Minnesota United value the 24-year-old and have reportedly tabled a new long-term deal. Negotiations over the new agreement are currently ongoing.
It has become clear that the club’s coach, Eric Ramsay, was impressed by the Bafana star’s output last season. The proposed new deal could keep him at the club until 2028.
Under Ramsay, Hlongwane enjoyed another standout campaign, netting 11 goals and providing four assists. His contributions were crucial in guiding Minnesota United to the MLS playoffs after the previous season’s exit.
Since his arrival, ‘Saniza’ has consistently performed for the club. Across all competitions, he has made 104 appearances, scoring 30 goals and providing 14 assists.
His versatility, having featured on the right wing, right wing back, centre forward and left wing adds significant value to the team.
BONGOKUHLE HLONGWANE’S IMPACT: BY THE NUMBERS
- 31 appearances [1843 minutes played]: Hlongwane’s regular playing time underscores his consistent involvement and importance to the team.
- 22 starts: He has consistently earned a starting place despite the coming in of a new coach, Eric Ramsay, who replaced Adrian Heath.
- 11 goals: He has repaid Ramsay’s faith with an impressive goal tally. As the team’s leading scorer, he has proven to be a prolific goal-scorer and a consistent threat in the attacking third.
- 4 assists: The Bafana Bafana winger’s impact extends beyond scoring, as he has also contributed significantly to the team’s offensive output through assists.
- 49 shots, 26 on target: His attacking approach is evident in his willingness to take shots and ability to find the target regularly.
- 33 fouls suffered: Opponents frequently foul him, highlighting his significant impact on the game and his ability to disrupt their defensive plans.
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