It's understood, as per Siya sources in the know, that the interest Belgian top flight side KV Westerlo showed in Kaizer Chiefs youngster Mduduzi Shabalala over a year ago has now completely collapsed.
News of the pursuit broke in July last year following the player's debut for the senior team under then interim coach Arthur Zwane, with Westerlo inviting the Amakhosi academy product for a trial. Soccer Laduma can confirm there was an offer on the table to sign Shabalala on loan for a season with an option to buy him outright at a later stage, but Chiefs declined the bid as they preferred to hold out for more.
Westerlo then suggested an obligation proposal to pay R4 million for Shabalala's services, adding they were also prepared to add another R2 million in bonuses should the player manage five official matches for at least 45 minutes in the Belgian Pro League, while promising a future sale of 15 percent.
The Soweto giants, who would have benefited immensely from a FIFA solidarity as well as training and compensation fee for developing the player, rejected the deal. Siya sources have indicated the Glamour Boys were holding out for R20 million in today's exchange rate.
It came as no surprise that the club then offered Shabalala, who turns 20 in January, a three-year contract and he was further snapped up by veteran agent Mike Makaab for Prosport International to handle his affairs.
Westerlo have now walked away and given they are currently fighting for relegation, it's not expected they will revive the interest.
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