CT Spurs speaks out on looming transfer disputes with Chiefs & AmaZulu
Cape Town Spurs CEO Alexi Efstathiou has spoken out on the looming transfer dispute with Betway Premiership teams Kaizer Chiefs and AmaZulu FC.
The Urban Warriors are seemingly preparing to go into battle with Chiefs and AmaZulu over the transfer of Asanele Velebayi, Luke Baartman, and Liam Bern.
Chiefs are reportedly closing in on the signing of Baartman and Velebayi, while AmaZulu have signed Bern for the upcoming Betway Premiership season.
CT Spurs suffered relegation to the ABC Motsepe League after the conclusion of the previous season. As a result, it is said that the players and their representatives believe they are eligible to become free agents and move to clubs of their choice, following the team’s relegation to the amateur ranks.
However, CT Spurs has sent a letter to the three players, ordering them to return to training to honour their contracts with the club.
The Cape Town-based side broke their silence on the matter on Saturday, stating that teams must follow appropriate channels to sign their talent.
WHAT CAPE TOWNS SAID ABOUT TRANSFERS OF THEIR TALENTED YOUNGSTERS
“Cape Town Spurs acknowledges the widespread public discussion surrounding the recent transfer activities involving some of our talented young players. We understand the keen interest of our loyal supporters and the broader football community. We wish to provide clarity on our position,” Spurs said in a statement.
“As a club, Cape Town Spurs has always been and will continue to be open to engaging with any club genuinely interested in our players. We believe in fostering talent and providing pathways for our athletes to grow and succeed. Our commitment to the development of South African football remains unwavering.
“However, it is imperative that all dealings are conducted with the utmost professionalism, transparency, and respect for established regulations and contractual agreements. In the current situation, we have the determination to protect the rights and interests of Cape Town Spurs, as well as the integrity of the sport itself. We are actively addressing this matter through appropriate channels and will deal with it in a professional and resolute manner.
“What is particularly concerning to us is the welfare of the young players. These are promising individuals who, despite their immense talent on the field, are still developing and may lack the experience to navigate the complexities of professional football transfers. It is worrying to consider that they may have been misled or unduly influenced in making decisions that could have significant long-term consequences for their careers.
“We know the characters of these players intimately, having nurtured them within the Spurs family for over a decade. We have seen them grow from aspiring youngsters into the fine athletes they are today. This situation does not reflect who they are, nor does it align with the values we have instilled in them.”
SPURS GIVE CONTRACTED PLAYERS ASSURANCE ABOUT SALARIES
“Furthermore, we want to assure our supporters and, most importantly, our players, that we remain steadfast in our commitments. Our contracted players who are currently in training, fulfilling their professional obligations, will be paid accordingly,” added Spurs.
“We understand that in this entire scenario, these players have families depending on the club meeting its obligations. We will continue to do so as we always have. Cape Town Spurs remains committed to its players, its fans, and the principles of fair play. We urge all parties to act responsibly and with integrity as this situation unfolds. We will provide further updates as circumstances allow.”
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