CT Spurs warns Chiefs, AmaZulu: Transfer dispute looms
- Martin T
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Cape Town Spurs have issued a strong statement regarding the futures of their "talented young players," as looming transfer disputes with Kaizer Chiefs and AmaZulu FC appear to be on the horizon.
This comes after reports indicated that CT Spurs' captain Asanele Velebayi and Luke Baartman are believed to have signed with Chiefs, while Liam Bern is said to have joined AmaZulu.
It is said that the trio have secured deals with new clubs, despite CT Spurs ordering them to report for pre-season training. The core of the dispute lies in Spurs' assertion that the players are still under contract, even though the club was relegated to the amateur ABC Motsepe League.
Conversely, the players and their representatives contend they have the right to terminate their existing contracts following the relegation.
On Saturday, Alexi Efstathiou of Cape Town Spurs issued a statement expressing the club's concern that their young players may have been "misled or unduly influenced" in these transfer dealings.
CAPE TOWN SPURS' FULL STATEMENT
"Cape Town Spurs acknowledges the widespread public discussion surrounding the recent transfer activities involving some of our talented young players. We understand the keen interest from our loyal supporters and the broader football community, and we wish to provide clarity on our position.
"As a club, Cape Town Spurs has always been, and will continue to be, open to engaging with any club genuinely interested in our players. We believe in fostering talent and providing pathways for our athletes to grow and succeed. Our commitment to the development of South African football remains unwavering.
"However, it is imperative that all dealings are conducted with the utmost professionalism, transparency, and respect for established regulations and contractual agreements. In the current situation, we are determined to protect the rights and interests of Cape Town Spurs, as well as the integrity of the sport itself. We are actively addressing this matter through appropriate channels and will deal with it in a professional and resolute manner.
"What is particularly concerning to us is the welfare of the young players involved. These are promising individuals who, despite their immense talent on the field, are still developing and may lack the experience to navigate the complexities of professional football transfers. It is worrying to consider that they may have been misled or unduly influenced in making decisions that could have significant long-term consequences for their careers.
"We know the characters of these players intimately, having nurtured them within the Spurs family for over a decade. We have seen them grow from aspiring youngsters into the fine athletes they are today. This current situation, we believe, does not truly reflect who they are, nor does it align with the values we have instilled in them.
"Furthermore, we want to assure our supporters and, most importantly, our players, that Cape Town Spurs remains steadfast in its commitments. Our contracted players who are currently at training, fulfilling their professional obligations, will be paid accordingly. We understand that in this entire scenario, these players have families depending on the club meeting its obligations, and we will continue to do so as we always have.
"Cape Town Spurs remains committed to its players, its fans, and the principles of fair play. We urge all parties to act responsibly and with integrity as this situation unfolds. We will provide further updates as circumstances allow."
