Four deadline day transfers that fell through in the PSL
Andre de Jong, pictured, Thapelo Maseko, Keagan Johannes and Jody Ah Shene were among the players whose proposed moves broke down on PSL deadline day. Photo: Ayanda Ndamane Independent Media
Image: Ayanda Ndamane Independent Media
The PSL top-flight slammed shut at midnight on Monday, with some players securing last-minute moves to other teams in the league.
Kaizer Chiefs’ duo Happy Mashiane and Samkelo Zwane were sent out on loan to Siwelele, joining former free agent Zakhele Lepasa, who had signed with the club earlier in the day.
However, a number of transfers fell through at the 11th hour, which is why we look at four of them below.
Andre de Jong to Orlando Pirates
De Jong has been one of Stellenbosch’s most consistent players over the past few years since arriving from Royal AM nearly three seasons ago.
It seemed he was set for a move to one of the country’s top clubs, with Orlando Pirates attempting to sign him on deadline day. However, the move collapsed, with Stellies CEO Rob Benadie confirming that the New Zealander would not be leaving during this window.
With the January transfer window set to open in three months, de Jong could still make the switch to the Sea Robbers. If that move materialises, he would still be eligible for CAF Champions League registration — even if he features in the Confederation Cup for Stellenbosch.
Keagan Johannes to Siwelele
When Johannes joined Mamelodi Sundowns from the now-defunct SuperSport United, expectations were high that he’d quickly adapt and make an impact at his new club.
But that hasn’t been the case. The 24-year-old has struggled for game time at Sundowns, so much so that he didn’t make the squad for the Club World Cup in July — highlighting that he isn’t in coach Miguel Cardoso’s plans.
During the recently closed transfer window, Johannes was set to join Siwelele on deadline day. However, reports have since emerged that the move wasn’t completed, with the Capetonian told to report for training in Chloorkop on Tuesday morning.
Thapelo Maseko to Stellenbosch
Maseko has found it difficult to break into Sundowns’ star-studded squad this season. Frustrated, he expressed his dissatisfaction on social media, prompting coach Cardoso to promise him opportunities to contribute in due time.
Following his public outcry, Maseko’s fortunes briefly improved when he featured in both legs of the MTN8 semi-final against Pirates. However, his resurgence was short-lived, as he once again fell down the pecking order.
Due to his ongoing frustrations and limited game time, Stellenbosch reportedly pushed to sign him on deadline day. But the move was turned down by Sundowns.
Jody Ah Shene to Mamelodi Sundowns
Ah Shene is considered one of the most promising young talents in the PSL, with many believing he shouldn’t have stayed with Cape Town City after their relegation last season.
Sundowns were reportedly close to finalising a deal for the 20-year-old just before the deadline, but the transfer ultimately fell through on Monday.
Ah Shene is set to represent Amajita at the U20 World Cup and reportedly hopes to use the tournament as a platform to secure a move abroad. He understands that it would have been more difficult to leave Sundowns immediately after joining, even if he impresses on the global stage.