Golden Arrows have moved swiftly in the transfer market, securing the signature of promising striker Hlumelo Mandla ahead of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season. The Durban side looks likely to lose striker Junior Dion after his exploits.
The 21-year-old attacker has already been spotted at the club as players undergo pre-season medical assessments, with information gathered by FARPost indicating that Mandla has signed a two-year contract with Abafana Bes’thende.
His arrival comes after attracting interest during his short stint with Motsepe Foundation Championship side Upington City FC. Durban City were among the clubs monitoring his situation, while Upington City were eager to retain his services after his performances during the second half of the campaign.
Mandla joined Upington City FC in January after leaving Siwelele FC’s DStv Diski Challenge setup and quickly made an impact in senior football. The striker scored three goals upon his arrival, adapting seamlessly to life in the Motsepe Foundation Championship.
His performances caught the attention of top-flight clubs, with Arrows ultimately winning the race for his signature
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Mandla’s journey has been one of steady progression. Before joining Siwelele’s reserve side in August 2025, he featured for ABC Motsepe League outfit Zizwe United, where he developed a reputation as a hard-working forward.
Siwelele FC identified his potential and brought him into their development structures alongside former Zizwe United teammate Prince Van Whye. Although opportunities in the DDC were limited, his move to Upington City provided the platform he needed to showcase his abilities at senior level.
Arrows are currently rebuilding ahead of the new season following major changes to their coaching department, with former Durban City coach Pitso Dladla expected to lead the side.
They also snapped up Keabetswe Rakosa from the Northern Cape side. Upington also lost defender-cum-midfielder Givemore Khupe to Sekhukhune United.
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