Junior Mendieta has bid an emotional farewell to Stellenbosch FC ahead of an anticipated move to champions Mamelodi Sundowns. Photo: Shaun Roy/BackpagePix

Sorry Chiefs! Sundowns want key midfielder too

Kaizer Chiefs better move fast if they want to make sure they land their top midfield supremo with Mamelodi Sundowns also now keen.

by Wade Pretorius

29-03-2023 12:42

in Soccer

Junior Mendieta has bid an emotional farewell to Stellenbosch FC ahead of an anticipated move to champions Mamelodi Sundowns. Photo: Shaun Roy/BackpagePix

Kaizer Chiefs better move fast if they want to make sure they land their top midfield supremo with Mamelodi Sundowns also now keen.

To make matters worse both Orlando Pirates and Royal AM have now been linked with the star.

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Mendieta to fix Chiefs?

Yes, it’s Stellenbosch FC’s Junior Mendieta who is at the centre of this transfer scrum. But where will he end up?

Phakaathi are reporting that the winelands outfit will let Mendieta leave at the end of the season. They might be reluctant to part ways but with a number of clubs keen, they know they can land a sizeable transfer fee.

“Chiefs will have stiff competition from Sundowns and Royal AM, who are known for their bottomless wallets,” read the report.

“Sundowns have also been asking about Mendieta.”

Mendieta has gathered the attention following a string of fine displays by Stellenbosch. In fact, Steve Barker’s side have won four of their last five in the PSL including a draw with Sundowns.

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Who will pay the R12 million?

According to the latest issue of Soccer Laduma, Mendieta – who has a contract with Stellenbosch through to next year – in fact has a buy-out clause amounting to a considerable R12 million.

Chiefs have been linked with a number of midfielders recently including 23-year-old AmaZulu midfielder Siphesihle Maduna. It appears that the likes of Cole Alexander, Phathushedzo Nange and Kamohelo Mahlatsi will all be shown the door following the final whistle of this season.