Kermit Erasmus' move to Orlando Pirates on transfer deadline day in September last year caught the football fraternity by surprise as the striker crossed the floor from Mamelodi Sundowns.
The forward rejoined the Buccaneers a free agent after the two parties agreed to have his contract mutually terminated because of a lack of game-time at Chloorkop, and now he is approaching the end of what was then a fresh start with the Soweto giants at the time.
Erasmus, now 33 but still in top physical condition, will be in a position to put pen to paper on a pre-contract with any club of his choice in January – six months before his initial deal with Pirates runs out.
Soccer Laduma, however, understands the player is keen to remain with the Buccaneers provided all involved reach a consensus on viable terms that also take into account where Erasmus is at this point of his career.
The pint-sized marksman is a veteran in the game and knows how delicate discussions for a new contract at his age will be, but so will Pirates – who recently lost out on Terrence Dzvukamanja having delayed tying him down.
SuperSport United eventually snapped up the Zimbabwean international, who was not a regular for coach Jose Riveiro when Matsatsantsa first showed an interest.
Erasmus has also struggled for game time this season, with the Pirates technical team preferring Zakhele Lepasa instead. It remains to be seen if his limited minutes on the pitch will be a huge factor, although there's still plenty of time to determine what role he plays for the Soweto giants in the weeks to come.
For how much longer do you believe Erasmus should stay at Pirates? Share your views in the comments section below!