SuperSport United CEO, Stan Matthews, has confirmed that the club will not be signing free agents Sifiso Hlanti and Brian Onyango.
Both experienced defenders had been training with the Pretoria-based outfit as they looked to bolster their defensive options.
The CEO reiterated their clear transfer strategy focused on acquiring younger players with higher resale value.
He believes this approach is crucial for the club’s long-term success. Despite the experience Hlanti could bring to the left-back position, the club has opted to stick to its recruitment policy.
Speaking to the media at the announcement of their ACDC sleeve sponsor on Tuesday, Matthews said,
“Hlanti would add a lot of value for us and experience at left-back, but I can’t bring in another 30-year-olds into my club, I’m bringing in 24-28-year-old players that have big resale value to whoever offers me the best deal and those who can stay with the club if need be and still be in the prime or their career,”
Matthews expressed confidence in SuperSport head coach Gavin Hunt’s ability to develop young talent and build a strong team. He iterated, “In fairness to Gav [Gavin Hunt], which coach would have given Shandre as much game time as he got last season to enable his move, so to me, I’m fully supportive of most things Gavin is doing with the club, very supportive”.
SuperSport United are currently reinforcing their squad with a mix of loan signings and young talent. The club has secured the services of Pogiso Sanoka, Vincent Pule, Nyiko Mobbie, and Ricardo Goss on loan, while Keanin Ayer, Brooklyn Poggenpoel, and Thakasani Mbanjwa are also expected to join.