Gavin Hunt signals a raft of player negotiations; Stellenbosch's squad overhaul is on the horizon

Stellenbosch FC’s newly appointed head coach, Gavin Hunt, is making waves just one week into his tenure, as he confirmed that the club is actively pursuing new players to bolster the squad.

After an official media unveiling on Friday, Hunt expressed concerns about the current squad’s depth, emphasising a pressing need for reinforcements, particularly in the attacking and defensive departments.

“It’s evident in our situation that we need to bring players in because we are somewhat short,” Hunt stated candidly.

The four-time league title winner reiterated the urgency of the situation, mentioning ongoing negotiations: “There’s a lot of negotiations going on right now... There are a lot of players we have spoken to, and there are a lot of players we’ve lost out to as well.”

Hunt said when the signings are finalised, the club’s media department will provide updates on contracts.

Among the notable names linked with a move to Stellies in recent days are Orlando Pirates striker Tshegotso Mabasa and Mamelodi Sundowns defender Mosa Lebusa.

One potential target who has caught the attention is Sundowns winger Kobamelo Kodisang. The 24-year-old, who has returned to South Africa after a stunted loan spell in Portugal, is reportedly a candidate for a loan deal until the end of the season.

With limited opportunities at Sundowns under head coach Miguel Cardoso, Kodisang may find a renewed sense of purpose under Hunt, who previously gave him his top-flight debut at Bidvest Wits.

As negotiations progress, discussions between Stellenbosch and Sundowns are advancing. Both clubs are optimistic about concluding the loan before the transfer window closes at the end of January.

If successful, a reunion with Hunt could prove pivotal for Kodisang’s career revival.

Meanwhile, Stellenbosch is gearing up for an exciting challenge as they will face reigning champions Kaizer Chiefs in the Round of 32 of the 2026 Nedbank Cup.

Scheduled to take place between February 4 and 8, the match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with the fixture details yet to be confirmed.

This draw marks the third meeting between the two clubs this season, with Stellenbosch having recently secured a decisive victory by eliminating Chiefs from the Carling Knockout in October.

The club’s recent record in the tournament has been impressive, having reached the quarter-finals last season and the semi-finals in the two previous campaigns.

As the season progresses, fans eagerly await seeing how new signings will reshape the squad dynamics and whether Stellenbosch FC can carry their momentum into the next chapter of the competition.