Swallows FC is the latest DStv Premiership side to show an interest in acquiring the services of former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Andile Jali.
However, the Dube Birds face a battle with several local and overseas teams to sign the experienced midfield maestro.
Andile Jali has attracted a lot of interest since parting ways with Mamelodi Sundowns at the end of the 2022/23 season. He was shown the exit door at the Tshwane after transgressing the club’s policy by arriving at training at Chloorkop under the influence of alcohol.
He ended his five-year stay at Mamelodi Sundowns on a sour note. However, Jali, who is currently a free agent, is not short of suitors.
Swallows have reportedly entered the race to sign Andile Jali. The in-demand star is also on the shopping list of Stellenboshc FC and his ex-club Pirates, who are said to be favourites to land the player’s signature.
Jali’s agent Mike Makaab recently stated that a move to the Middle East or China should not be ruled out for his client.
The Soweto side’s interest might be influenced by Steve Komphela, who was announced as Swallows head coach a few days ago.
SWALLOWS KEEN TO SIGN ANDILE JALI
Komphela worked with Jali at Swallows, and the duo have a close relationship, which, as they displayed publicly; while at Sundowns, winning trophies
According to SABC Sport, the club has started to engage Jali formally ahead of the new season.
The 33-year-old is an experienced campaigner with 49 international appearances for Bafana Bafana. He has also had a stint overseas in Belgium at KV Oostende.
OTHER SOCCER NEWS:Sundowns officially cut ties with Andile Jali
Jali is a serial winner as he has clinched seven Premiership titles, two at Pirates and five in the colours of Sundowns.
On top of that, he won numerous individual accolades such as the DStv Premiership Midfielder of the Season and Nedbank Cup Player of the Tournament.
It remains to be seen of Swallows under Komphela will be able to lure Jali to Soweto ahead of the new season.