Slatsha (22) is a former Ajax Cape Town youth product who has made 28 senior appearances for City, while defender Lopes last played for Mozambique side Clube Ferroviario da Beira.

Both players have already spent the past week in Durban with their new team and will look to hit the ground running when Usuthu resume their Betway Premiership campaign at home against TS Galaxy on January 25.

A club statement read: “AmaZulu Football Club have secured the services of two exciting midfield additions during the ongoing January FIFA transfer window, with Luyolo Slatsha (22) joining from Cape Town City and Brazilian-born Gustavo Lopes (24) arriving as a free agent.”

Slatsha expressed his delight at the move, telling his new club: “It’s been a very welcoming environment so far. It’s an open space where the relationship between the coaches and players is very good.

“I believe this group can produce something special. My focus right now is to establish myself within the team, and from there, further aspirations will follow as things go.”

Lopes added: “South African football comes with a lot of pressure and is widely followed beyond the country’s borders.

“It’s good, well-played football, and that is clear to see. I’ve been very well received since arriving and have seen first-hand how organised the club is.

“The structure here is strong and professional, and I believe this is a club capable of achieving something significant.”