Sekhukhune United are keen on completing the signing of Botswana’s reigning Footballer of the Season, Benson Kitso Mangolo, from Botswana Premier League champions Jwaneng Galaxy.
The 24-year-old full-back could join Babina Noko on a long-term deal with the idea of loaning him out to a Motsepe Foundation Championship side in January 2024. They feel loaning him out would help him adapt to the South African game ahead of the 2024/25 season.
Mangolo’s attacking flair and defensive solidity have made him a standout in Botswana’s top-flight and with the national team. His key role in Jwaneng Galaxy’s CAF Champions League upset of Orlando Pirates attracted interest from South African clubs.
Sekhukhune United, eager to bolster their squad ahead of the upcoming season, have identified Mangolo as a key target. Interestingly, he will be a free agent ahead of the January 2024 transfer window, with his contract coming to an end in December.
“He hasn’t renewed his deal with Jwaneng Galaxy. It doesn’t look like he will renew it because there’s a possibility the move to South Africa could materialise,” a source said.
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He recently revealed his ambitions for the upcoming season. Mangolo himself has expressed his desire to play in South Africa. “I’ve learned a lot under Coach Morena Ramoreboli. At this point, my ambition is to play football in South Africa. I’m just waiting for that opportunity,” Mangolo told FARPost.
Mangolo’s addition to Sekhukhune United could boost their attack from full-back and bolster their defense. They have Siphosakhe Ntiyantiya in that position.
WHO ELSE IS INTERESTED IN BENSON MANGOLO?
It is reported that Chippa United and Pretoria Callies are interested in acquiring the services of the roving fullback. However, Chippa United has recently been issued with a transfer ban, which means they will be unable to sign him until the ban is lifted.
Callies won’t compete with Sekhukhune, so Sekhukhune might loan him to Magesi FC if they sign him.