USA second division side FC Tulsa has disclosed the valuation of their prized acquisition, SA midfielder Jamie Webber, recognised as the USL Championship’s most valuable player.
FC Tulsa announced the acquisition of Webber on Friday, a month after the highly-rated midfielder departed his former club, Sekhukhune United.
Webber’s first foray abroad saw him move to the USA after a two-year stint with Babina Noko, where he recorded 36 appearances, scoring five goals and providing five assists.
However, Webber’s time at Sekhukhune this season proved challenging. Prior to his departure, he did not make any appearances, having fallen out of favour with the then-head coach, Lehlohonolo Seema.
This situation led to his transfer to Tulsa, following reported interest from Kaizer Chiefs and Cape Town City FC in the Betway Premiership.
Despite being action-starved at club level, Webber recently showcased his talent on the international stage. He featured for Bafana Bafana in a thrilling two-legged CHAN qualifier against Egypt, where he painted the back of the net with a stunning strike in a 1-1 first-leg draw.
WEBBER VALUED AT R21.4 MILLION, TOPS USL CHAMPIONSHIP
Oklahoma-based outfit FC Tulsa reported that Webber joins the USL Championship with a €1 million [R21.4 million] valuation, establishing the former Matsatsansa star as the league’s highest-valued player.
“FC Tulsa made history on Friday, signing midfielder Jamie Webber from South African Premier Division side Sekhukhune United FC in one of the most high-profile incoming transfers in USL Championship history,” reads the club statement.
“A decorated veteran, Webber enters the USL Championship carrying a €1 million valuation via Transfermarkt, making him the most valuable player in the league.”
Meanwhile, FC Tulsa’s sporting director and general manager, Caleb Sewell, hailed Webber’s signing as a pivotal moment for the club.
“This is a landmark moment for FC Tulsa, not just as a club, but as a rising force in the American soccer landscape,” he said.
“Jamie is a player of true international calibre, with a resume that speaks for itself. His arrival in Tulsa is a reflection of how far our club has come and where we’re headed. Jamie brings leadership, experience and creativity in the middle of the park. We also believe he’ll elevate everyone around him.
“This signing signals our ambition, and we’re proud to welcome one of the most respected midfielders from the South African Premier Division into our ranks.
Webber has over 150 appearances in the SA elite league, 119 of which were played in the colours of SuperSport, where he won the MTN8 title. His contributions on the pitch include 11 goals and 16 assists. Furthermore, he has gained valuable experience in the CAF Confederation Cup.
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