Cape Town Spurs break silence over players linked with Kaizer Chiefs and AmaZulu - 'They may have been misled or unduly influenced'

Cape Town Spurs have finally broken silence after reports emerged that three of their players are linked with two Premier Soccer League clubs.

In a statement released by the club's Chief Executive Officer Alexi Efstathiou, relegated Cape Town Spurs have said they decided to reveal their position over the matter because of public interest in it.

"Cape Town Spurs acknowledge 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," the statement read.

"As a club, Cape Town Spurs have 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," it added.

Cape Town Spurs have said they are not opposed to any move by the players but affirmed such transfers must be conducted in a professional way.

"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," Efstathiou's statement added.

"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."

The players in question are understood to be Asanele Velebayi, Liam Bern, and Luke Baartman.

Velebayi and Baartman have been linked with moves to Kaizer Chiefs, while Bern is said to be on his way to AmaZulu.

The three players, within the rules, are allowed to negotiate and sign for clubs of their choice. This is because Cape Town Spurs suffered relegation from the National First Division to the ABC Motsepe League.

According to NSL rules, the players could move as free agents given the status of Cape Town Spurs.

After the protest by Cape Town Spurs, eyes are now on Chiefs and AmaZulu to see whether they will go on and sign the three players.