With Kazier Chiefs fan favourite Hendrick ‘Pule’ Ekstein’s contract ending in June 2019, talks over a new deal have reportedly hit a deadlock with the midfielder now weighing up his options with Orlando Pirates, Bidvest Wits and SuperSport United all ready to pounce.
Both parties have been in negotiation looking to thrash out a deal since last year, and despite the midfielder playing an important role in the side since the arrival of Ernst Middendorp, it looks as though he could be allowed to leave the club on a free transfer.
According to a report by KickOff.com, Ekstein is not pleased with the financial package offered in his new deal and has received interest from several clubs, including the likes of Wits, Pirates and SuperSport who have reportedly offered him better deals.
‘Pule’s contract is coming to an end at Chiefs in June,’ a source told KickOff.com.
‘And the contract that Chiefs is putting forward is not what the boy expected. Now there are teams already that are talking to him on the side offering him a better contract which is way better than what Chiefs is offering. What Chiefs is offering him is very little you see. The club is willing to renew his contract, but the thing is the money is not okay.
‘I can tell you the likes of SuperSport, Wits and Pirates are interested … especially Pirates. Chiefs want to give him only two years, while the other teams are talking three years and serious money.’
Chiefs communication manager Vina Maphosa subsequently asked to comment on the matter. He, however, gave nothing away, insisting that the club will make announcements in due course.
‘I don’t have any feedback on my table regarding that. And how we work at Kaizer Chiefs I’m sure you know. When we do a wrap of the window period and all that, we also clarify on contracts, and that will be the end of the month.’
The 28-year-old has turned out 15 times for the Glamour Boys across the various competitions this season, where he has scored two goals and provided one assist.
Photo: Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix