Steve Barker’s Simba SC have won the race for Sekhukhune United winger Keletso Makgalwa after reaching a full agreement with the Betway Premiership club for his transfer, FARPost has been informed.
The Tanzanian giants have met Sekhukhune’s valuation of the 29-year-old, with the two clubs having already signed the transfer agreement. The move is now edging towards completion after the player also reached a verbal agreement with Simba over his personal terms.
If Makgalwa signs the contract, he will become the latest South African to join the Tanzanian giants ahead of the 2026/27 season. Last season, Barker had Rushine De Reuck and Neo Maema in his dressing room.
FARPost understands that former Stellenbosch FC coach Barker has played a major role in persuading Makgalwa that the move to Wekundu wa Msimbazi is the right step for his career.
Barker, who took charge of the Reds in December 2025 after leaving Stellenbosch FC, reportedly sold his vision to the talented attacker and outlined the role he envisaged for him. Those discussions proved influential in steering the move towards Simba despite interest from their rivals, Young Africans.
Yanga was also courting Makgalwa in recent days. However, Simba moved decisively, meeting Sekhukhune’s asking price and quickly finalising the paperwork between the clubs.
MAKGALWA SET FOR NEW CHAPTER
Makgalwa leaves Sekhukhune after two productive seasons at Babina Noko, during which he established himself as one of the club’s most creative players.
The former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder registered six goals and 20 assists in 66 appearances across all competitions for Babina Noko, consistently providing the attacking spark that made him one of the standout performers in the Betway Premiership.
His departure comes as Sekhukhune continue reshaping their squad and technical team under new head coach Cedric Kaze, with several experienced players already moving on ahead of the new campaign.
Barker has the task of ending Yanga’s five-year dominance and will be hoping Makgalwa hits the ground running.
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