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FootballItumeleng Khune's Agent Reacts to Sekhukhune Rumours, With Kaizer Chiefs Deal Set to Expire
- Itumeleng Khune has been suspended by Kaizer Chiefs since last December
- The veteran keeper reportedly arrived at training while under the influence
- His agent has responded to the 36-year-old's links with Sekhukhune United
The future of Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper, Itumeleng Khune, has been the subject of speculation, with rumours recently linking him to Sekhukhune United.
Khune, who extended his contract with Amakhosi for one year in June 2023, is set to see his tenure with the club conclude at the end of the 2023/24 DStv Premiership season.
This marks his 20th season sporting the gold and black colours of the Soweto giants.
Initially, Chiefs had announced plans for the 36-year-old to transition into a coaching and ambassadorial role, stressing his desire to broaden his technical expertise.
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However, he expressed interest in continuing his playing career, aiming to stretch it until he reaches 40.
More recently, there has been speculation about the shot-stopper's potential move to Sekhukhune United as his contract with Chiefs nears its end.
Khune's agent has since stepped in to provide clarity on the matter.
The keeper's representative, Thato Matuka, has refuted the claims, stating that no club had approached the former Bafana Bafana captain.
"The engagements with the club about Itu’s future are ongoing. It’s a process, not an overnight discussion. There hasn’t been any offer or talks with any club," said Matuka, as quoted by Far Post.
When did Khune last play for Kaizer Chiefs?
Khune last featured for Chiefs in November during their 1-0 loss to arch-rivals, Orlando Pirates, before being suspended due to alleged disciplinary issues.
Despite this, he made a notable appearance for the Carling All-Stars team in January, contributing to their victory in the Carling Knockout Cup against Stellenbosch FC.
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FootballHaving served Chiefs faithfully for numerous years, Khune has amassed over 340 appearances for the Glamour Boys, amassing more than 150 clean sheets in the process.
In Khune's absence, Bruce Bvuma has stepped up admirably, featuring in six games and keeping five clean sheets. The keeper has even earned himself a new contract at Naturena.
However, he stated that he respects and admires Khune, acknowledging him as a club legend and a significant figure in South African football.
"This is one person that we all idolised growing up, especially goalkeepers. I’ve learnt a lot from him," Bvuma said, as reported by iDiski Times.
Khune mulls Chiefs coaching role
Sports Brief previously reported that Chiefs stalwart, Khune was contemplating shifting to coaching within the club’s youth setup.
Sources close to the veteran had indicated that he would not extend his playing tenure, with his contract set to end in this season.