According to Siya sources, coach Benni McCarthy had his sights set on a South American striker prior to the start of the season.
According to Siya sources, coach Benni McCarthy had his sights set on a South American striker prior to the start of the season.
But it appears as though the AmaZulu mentor will be missing out on signing Facundo Juarez, the 27-year-old Argentinian forward who can also play as a right midfielder.
Indications are that Juarez would have been the ideal target for McCarthy as he prepares for what is expected to be a tough second season at Usuthu having achieved a remarkable second place in the DStv Premiership in his maiden campaign, one in which he arrived after seven matches had already been played and did not have pre-season.
Juarez plays for Atletico Mitre in the second tier of his native country and the suggestions are that his contract is coming to an end in December, making him a free agent unless it is extended in the coming months.
McCarthy, with his network around the world having been a high-profile player during his playing days, would have been monitoring the striker for months before adding him to his wish list.
But the coach, for now at least, will instead have to put his trust in veteran Lehlohonolo Majoro, Augustine Mulenga and Bongi Ntui, who now looks to have finally recovered from a persistent injury that held him back last season.
There is still a week to go before the close of the transfer window in Mzansi to bring Juarez on board, failing which the market will reopen in January.
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