Mamelodi Sundowns, the reigning DStv Premiership champions, are reportedly intensifying their efforts to bolster their squad for the upcoming season, with a particular focus on strengthening their defensive line.
Siya sources have indicated that the Brazilians have set their sights on Stellenbosch FC's Ivorian defender, Olivier Toure, joining Kaizer Chiefs in the race for the highly-rated international.
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Siya sources close to the Brazilians discuss the club's strategy to prepare for a demanding season ahead, which includes participation in approximately seven competitions.
"Yes, they are looking at the foreign defender at Stellenbosch FC. He is from Ivory Coast. He used to play for Marumo Gallants last season. Yes, that one Toure. Their main aim is to have a very strong defence for next season. They will be playing in about seven competitions and to do that very well they need a well balanced squad in all departments. So, it's not only the defence that they are looking at. But that's the defender they are interested in," one source revealed.
The pursuit of Toure is also motivated by the need to provide adequate rest for Bafana Bafana players Grant Kekana and Mthobi Mvala, who have had minimal downtime due to their national team duties, according to a second Siya source.
"Mvala and Kekana don't really have time to rest and if they are not playing then the team ends up using players like Bongani Zungu in defence and that's why they are looking at a player like Toure to cover up and also do a good job when called upon. They have inquired about him and we will see what will happen now," added the second Siya source, highlighting Sundowns' strategic planning.
Toure, who joined Stellenbosch FC last season from the relegated Marumo Gallants on a three-year contract, has quickly become a key player for the Cape Winelands side. The 26-year-old's performances, including his role in the club's Carling Knockout Cup victory, have not gone unnoticed, making him a sought-after player in the transfer market.
As Chiefs and Sundowns vie for Toure's signature, the competition between the two giants promises to be a closely watched affair. Toure's potential move could significantly impact the defensive capabilities of the acquiring team, making this transfer saga one to watch in the coming weeks.
Soccer Laduma contacted Sundowns for comment but the club had not responded by the time this story was published.
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