Confirmed: Bafana Bafana & Nigeria-eligible defender Ime Okon set to leave SuperSport United for European club as Stan Matthews delivers bad news for Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns
SuperSport United’s CEO, Stan Matthews, has unveiled the likelihood of rising star Ime Okon departing the Tshwane giants for a European club as the current season draws to a close.
In a candid revelation, Matthews also addressed the Premier Soccer League’s heavyweights – Mamelodi Sundowns, Kaizer Chiefs, and Orlando Pirates – regarding the availability of Okon and fellow talent Shandre Campbell.
Matthews made it clear that neither Okon nor Campbell would be making a domestic move, especially not to Sundowns, a club that has previously poached several players from SuperSport United.
Okon, who possesses dual eligibility for both South Africa and Nigeria’s national teams, has emerged as a standout performer in the PSL this season, solidifying his place in the Matsatsantsa defense alongside seasoned campaigners like Thulani Hlatshwayo and Siyanda Xulu. His recent trial with Danish side FC Midtjylland during the Africa Cup of Nations hiatus further underscores his burgeoning reputation.
Meanwhile, 18-year-old Campbell has been a revelation since breaking into the senior team under Gavin Hunt’s tutelage last July. His impressive tally of five goals and four assists across various competitions has not only caught the eye domestically but has also stirred interest from European clubs, mirroring Okon’s trajectory.
Matthews hinted at Okon’s imminent move to Europe in July, citing considerable interest, while Campbell’s departure might occur after further seasoning in South Africa’s top-flight league. Despite Campbell’s youth, his potential has already drawn inquiries from elite European clubs, indicating a bright future ahead.
Both players, according to Matthews, harbor ambitions of testing their skills overseas, a sentiment fully endorsed by SuperSport United’s management. As the club gears up for upcoming fixtures, Campbell has a platform to showcase his talents to scouts both locally and internationally.
The anticipation mounts as the summer transfer window approaches, with Okon’s destination up in the air, though FC Midtjylland reportedly stands as a keen suitor for the promising defender.
