News from Naturena and Sekhukhune United suggest there are ongoing talks regarding the future of Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Yusuf Maart, but there could be a surprising U-turn for the captain.
Insiders close to both clubs and the player have indicated that Sekhukhune United are keen to re-sign Maart, who previously spent three seasons with the Limpopo-based team.
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Babina Noko's interest comes despite Amakhosi's confidence in the player from earlier in the season when the club underlined why they were not only happy with Maart but that he was the right man to captain the team by leading from the front with his commitment on the pitch.
So, what has changed?
"His future at Chiefs is not clear and that's why it's believed that Sekhukhune United are interested in signing him back. Apparently there is no decision yet (on his future) made by Chiefs which means that he could possibly return to Sekhukhune as a free agent. For now, it's still in the pipeline and nothing has been concluded yet but something is cooking from Sekhukhune's side," the insider told the Siya crew.
A second Siya source, close to Amakhosi, pointed out that Chiefs' midfield depth could make it potentially easier for the club to consider Maart's departure. This is if they decide to not renew his contract. With Thabo Cele, Edson Castillo, Sibongiseni "Ox" Mthethwa, and Samkelo Zwane all capable of playing in the same position as Maart, the Glamour Boys are reportedly confident they have adequate options if he leaves.
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"It's a tricky situation for him. The club is not yet ready for his next move and at the same time it's believed that there is interest from his former team. So, it will all depend on what Chiefs say while Sekhukhune wait on the wings. Chiefs are also having a ready replacement for him as they have other players who can play in that position in case he leaves so it's a catch-22 situation," the second insider revealed.
Maart, a former Orlando Pirates youth player, joined Chiefs from Sekhukhune United in 2022 on a three-year contract. Since his arrival, the 29-year-old has appeared in most league games, scoring a few goals.
Soccer Laduma reached out to both Sekhukhune United and Kaizer Chiefs for comment, but no response was received at the time of publication.
It remains to be seen if Chiefs would end up retaining Maart anyway as there are many variables, including the future of Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi. Who's decision would it be if Nabi's own position is in question?
Even though moving to Sekhukhune United might be seen as a step down by fans, it was there that Maart broke into the Bafana Bafana team and his former club has actually been ahead of Amakhosi in the PSL table.
