Stellenbosch FC’s stance on acquiring Cape Town Spurs talents Asanele Velebayi and Luke Baartman has come to light following Spurs’ relegation to the ABC Motsepe League, marking their second consecutive drop from the PSL.
The Mother City club endured a challenging season under Ernst Middendorp, ultimately finishing 15th in the Motsepe Foundation Championship and falling out of the professional ranks.
This marks their second successive relegation, having dropped from the Betway Premiership last season.
The club’s precarious situation has understandably piqued the interest of numerous clubs in their players, as Spurs face the prospect of amateur football unless their ongoing legal case against Durban City FC proves successful.
In fact, Stellenbosch FC has already secured the services of Spurs’ right-back Siviwe Nkwali. This isn’t the first time the Winelands club has signed players from their cross-town rivals, with Ashley Cupido and Chumani Butsaka previously making the switch to Stellies.
WHAT IS STELLENBOSCH’S STANCE ON VELEBAYI AND BAARTMAN
Baartman currently has one year remaining on his contract with Spurs, set to expire in June 2026. Velebayi also held a running contract with the Parow-based side.
Notably, Kaizer Chiefs showed interest in Velebayi during the last transfer window, but Spurs’ valuation of approximately R10 million was deemed excessive.
With Spurs’ relegation, the club will transition from the top two professional tiers of South African football to operate under the auspices of SAFA in the ABC Motsepe League. This move could potentially render their professional contracts null and void, making players effectively free agents.
However, it’s crucial to acknowledge the pending case against Durban City, as its outcome could significantly alter this situation.
Should the relegation stand, Spurs would lose the ability to charge transfer fees for their players. They would, however, be entitled to claim a training compensation fee for players under 21, such as Baartman. This compensation can be claimed until a player reaches the age of 23, though the calculation is based on training provided up to the age of 21.
According to information obtained by FARPost, Stellenbosch FC is reportedly keen on securing Baartman’s services. Regarding Velebayi, sources indicate that Stellies believe they already possess a player with a similar profile in Langelihle Phili.
Stellenbosch FC is known for its ethical approach to transfers and is reportedly closely monitoring the unfolding situation at Spurs before making any definitive moves.
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