Exclusive: Riaan Hanamub pens new AmaZulu contract

The news comes in the wake of interest from Kaizer Chiefs, who have shortlisted the Namibian international as a target with the door closing on their pursuit of Stellenbosch FC left back Fawaaz Basadien. 

The side from the Winelands have made it clear Basadien is not for sale at any price during the current transfer window after he also committed to a four-year contract back in February. 

Usuthu themselves had recruited Hanamub from Chippa United in July 2022 and had been able to ward off any strong attention for the player since then, especially as he’d become one of the most consistent defenders in the Premier Soccer League and his national team. 

Contacted for comment, Zungu informed the public broadcaster that he was delighted with Hanamub putting pen to paper. 

“Yes, he has signed a new contract with us, which is for a further three-years,” was the president’s quick response. 

This effectively means the experienced defender will be on their books until at least June 2027, and will come at a heavy price tag for any future suitors. 

While Chiefs’ recruitment strategy has been evident, and included beefing up coach Nasreddine Nabi’s squad with yet another defender – with Basadien as the first option and Hanamub as an alternative – Zungu said he was never officially approached by the Soweto giants about the player. 

“We never received an offer in writing. This contract [for Hanamub] was something already in the pipeline, yes,” the Usuthu owner explained. 

AmaZulu begin their Betway Premiership campaign on 14 September away from home when they face Polokwane City at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium. 

READ: We will do our utmost to keep Fawaaz Basadien - Rob Benadie