Kaizer Chiefs and Esperance Sportive de Tunis are in a race for Oswin Appollis, according to iDiski Times.
Appollis, the talented Bafana Bafana winger currently with Polokwane City, is reportedly poised for a significant transfer to North Africa. Appollis has recently attracted interest from top clubs, including Kaizer Chiefs and Esperance Sportive de Tunis, following a standout season with Polokwane City in 2023/2024.
The 22-year-old midfielder has impressed both domestically and internationally. His exceptional performance with Polokwane City earned him a spot in the South African national team, where he contributed to the squad that secured third place in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Appollis: Interest from North Africa heats up
Several North African giants, including Wydad Athletic Club, Zamalek, and MC Alger, have shown strong interest in Appollis. Despite the buzz, no deal has been finalised yet, as recent weeks have seen multiple transfer hijackings among Algerian football’s top clubs.
Appollis was notably left on the bench during Polokwane City’s 1-0 MTN8 defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns at Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium. Head coach Phuti Mohafe described Appollis’ omission as a tactical decision, aiming to safeguard the player before a potential transfer. However, Mohafe’s comments did little to dispel speculation surrounding Appollis’ future.
Cape Town Spurs’ stance on Chumani Butsaka
Meanwhile, Cape Town Spurs have firmly rejected Stellenbosch FC’s offer for their standout star, Chumani Butsaka. Despite Spurs’ relegation to the Motsepe Foundation Championship, the club is determined to retain their key players and strengthen their squad for a return to the top flight.
Spurs had a challenging previous season, winning only six matches, drawing five, and losing 19. With 23 points, they were relegated but made a strong comeback by gaining promotion to the Betway Premiership for the 2023/2024 season after defeating Maritzburg United and Casric Stars in the PSL Promotion/Relegation playoffs.
Stellenbosch FC’s persistent pursuit
Stellenbosch FC’s initial offer of around R5 million plus a 20% sell-on clause for Butsaka quickly met with rejection from Spurs. A source close to the situation revealed, “Stellenbosch have shown significant interest in Chumani Butsaka. Cape Town Spurs remain resolutely committed to retaining their top players. Prioritizing the preservation of their key talents despite ongoing interest from other clubs. Despite rejecting the first offer, Stellenbosch has returned. Asking Spurs to name their price. Spurs decided to keep Butsaka because they need to maintain Under-23 players in the Motsepe Foundation Championship. Making it clear that Butsaka’s move hinges on more than just financial terms.”
As Kaizer Chiefs and Esperance raced, the transfer window progressed, with both Appollis and Butsaka’s futures remaining in flux. Because clubs are keenly watching their developments.
So stay tuned in with The South African as and it all unfolds.
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