Cape Town Spurs right-back Siviwe Nkwali has signed a pre-contract agreement with Stellenbosch FC, securing a transfer to the Winelands outfit once his contract expires in June.
The 19-year-old defender has caught the attention of Stellies, who made several attempts to secure his signature, especially during the January transfer window. Despite showing strong interest, they were deterred by Spurs’ asking price in the region of R10 million.
With his Spurs contract set to end on June 31, 2025, Nkwali will join Stellenbosch FC as a free agent. Currently in Egypt for national Under-20 AFCON duty, he has already formalised the pre-contract agreement.
There were discussions behind the scenes between Spurs and Nkwali regarding a new contract. Unfortunately, these negotiations collapsed when both parties failed to reach an agreement, leading to Spurs resigning themselves to losing the promising player.
Nkwali’s refusal to sign contract renewals has led to his exclusion from the Spurs’ matchday squad. Nonetheless, his ability to defend and contribute in attack drew the interest of top-flight clubs, with Stellenbosch FC keen to integrate him into their setup.
Sekhukhune United and AmaZulu FC were also keen to sign the talented defender.
HOW LONG IS SIVIWE NKWALI’S AGREEMENT WITH STELLENBOSCH
The Steve Barker-coached side offered the South African youth international a three-year deal, with an option to extend for two years. At Stellies, he will face the competition of Nigerian full-back Godswill Enyinnaya.
The club considers Nkwali a long-term investment, believing the player is likely to develop into a top full-back. With the attributes of a top right-back, the teenager could develop into a key player and the mainstay of Barker’s team.
Following Spurs’ relegation to the Motsepe Foundation Championship at the end of last season, the club fought to retain their best talents amid interest from topflight rivals. They parted ways with several key players, including centre-back Rushwin Dortley to Kaizer Chiefs, captain Chumani Butsaka, and striker Ashley Cupido to Stellenbosch FC.
Nkwali will reunite with Butsaka and Cupido at Stellenbosch.