Bafana defender future at Sundowns hangs, Chiefs alternative!

Bafana Bafana defender future at Mamelodi Sundowns hangs in the balance, according to Skepe Matsabane.  

The player in question, Grant Kekana, reigning PSL Defender of the Year for Sundowns, faces an uncertain future as negotiations over his contract extension with the club have hit an impasse.

Kekana’s current contract with Sundowns is set to expire at the end of the month, and talks for a new deal have not yielded an agreement. According to reports, his agent Steve Kapeluschnik has been in discussions with Sundowns’ Sporting Director Flemming Berg. 

Initially, Sundowns offered Kekana a two-year extension with an option but without a salary increase, just before the previous season concluded. Dissatisfied with the terms, Kekana rejected the offer and instead proposed a three-year extension with an improved salary.

Changing offers and frustration

However, the latest offer from Berg last week caught the Bafana defender Kekana by surprise. It was a stark departure from the previous proposal, reducing the contract length to just one year, eliminating the option, and maintaining the current salary. This “take it or leave it” stance has reportedly left Kekana deeply dissatisfied, prompting serious consideration of his future at the club.

Kekana dissatisfaction and considerations

Sources close to the negotiations reveal that Kekana is frustrated with how his contributions are valued compared to high-earning foreign players at the club. The disparity in salaries between local stars like Kekana and international signings has been a point of contention.

A source familiar with the situation expressed the players’ sentiments, stating: “This guy (Flemming Berg) brought in South Americans who are earning a million a month. And the players you are talking about like Grant(Kekana) are contributing every week. But they cannot even make half what guys like Marcelo Allende and Matias Ezquivel are making. The guys feel it is unfair.”

Looking at the Kaizer Chiefs alternative

With negotiations at a standstill, Kekana’s camp has hinted at exploring other options if Sundowns fails to meet their demands. “Kaizer Chiefs is now an option if Sundowns does not come back with an improved offer. Kekana does not want to leave, but he knows Chiefs can offer better terms,” the source added.

Coaching changes on Bafana defender

The recent departure of Rhulani Mokwena, who shares an agent with Kekana, adds another layer of complexity to the negotiations. Mokwena’s exit from Sundowns has potentially disrupted the dynamics. Which further complicates efforts to resolve Kekana’s contract situation swiftly.

As talks are set to resume, both parties hope to find common ground to secure Kekana’s future at Sundowns. His impressive track record, including his role in Sundowns’ recent successes. And his accolades as Defender of the Year, underscores his value to the team. The outcome of these negotiations will not only impact Kekana’s career path but also shed light on Sundowns’ commitment to retaining key local talents amidst evolving squad dynamics.