Stellenbosch missed out on Maseko after R28m fee proved too high

Stellenbosch FC missed out on signing Thapelo Maseko because the club could not meet the financial demands for the Mamelodi Sundowns winger. Head coach Gavin Hunt said he wanted the player, but the proposed deal was beyond Stellenbosch’s budget.

Maseko is set to be unveiled by Danish club FC Copenhagen after completing a transfer valued at about R28 million. The winger was also earning approximately R1 million per month, adding to the cost of a move for Hunt’s side.

Hunt’s interest came after Langelihle Phili left Stellenbosch, leaving the squad short of options on the flanks. Wide players have been central to the coach’s approach throughout his 30-year career, making the loss particularly significant for the club.

The coach had hoped to strengthen the position with Maseko and also considered adding one or two other players. His preference is for natural wingers, with balance provided by left-footed players on one side and right-footed players on the other.

Hunt believes that type of width is important because it supplies the forwards. His concern is that teams often rely on large strikers without providing them with enough service, while many modern attacks use inverted wide players instead of maintaining natural balance.

The failed attempt to sign Maseko leaves Stellenbosch still searching for the type of winger Hunt wants. The coach said the financial gap means he may not be able to obtain his preferred player, while Maseko prepares for the next stage of his career in Denmark.