Siphesihle Maduna of AmaZulu challenges Reeve Frosler of Kaizer Chiefs. (Photo: Sydney Mahlangu/BackpagePix/Gallo Images)
Potential wounds in the AmaZulu FC camp may reopen if one of their players signs a pre-contract with Kaizer Chiefs in the January transfer window.
ALSO READ: Komphela praises Chaine and likens Mabasa to Haaland
This situation is reminiscent of a past incident with a player refusing a contract extension at Usuthu, revealing a strong preference for the Naturena side.
This isn’t the first time such a scenario has unfolded at AmaZulu. Siyethemba Sithebe, two seasons ago, had a similar experience.
Sithebe wavered when Usuthu sought to extend his contract but eventually joined Chiefs, signing a pre-contract first.
During that period, the Usuthu president, Sandile Zungu expressed his anger and allowed the player to train with the team but gave strict instructions that he should not be played.
Even when the coach at the time, Benni McCarthy, pleaded for Sithebe’s inclusion, the player remained sidelined until his contract ended.
Now, it appears that AmaZulu may face a repetition of this situation, with reports indicating that Siphesihle Maduna has also turned down a new contract offer.
According to a KickOff report, Maduna eagerly anticipates the January player signing window to officially join Chiefs.
Since he will have only six months remaining on his contract with the Durban side, he will be permitted to sign with any team of his choice.
However, if Chiefs wish to secure his services immediately, they will need to make an offer to buy him from AmaZulu.
Otherwise, the talented Maduna will have to wait until the end of the season to become part of their team.
“Maduna was given a new contract by MaZulu but he rejected it. His dream is to join Kaizer Chiefs,” a source was quoted as saying in the report.
Maduna is yet to make an appearance under coach Pablo Martin this season and was at some point said to be among the players who would be offloaded.
But it seems he has since captured the imagination of the technical team who are believed to be keen on keeping him in their team.
ALSO READ: Bafana to face familiar foes after ‘friendly’ Afcon finals draw
But, if Chiefs have shown an interest, Usuthu will have little chance to convince him against the instant fame that comes with playing for the once mighty Amakhosi.
Download our app and read this and other great stories on the move. Available for Android and iOS.