Growing MLS interest in PSL players explained

Tanner’s club are also part of the list having signed young defender Olwethu Makhanya from Stellenbosch FC, a deal clinched around the same time as Toronto FC buying striker Cassius Mailula from Mamelodi Sundowns.

The former Hoffenheim CEO knows a lot about the SA market.

"Listen, this is not a coincidence because there is no place in the world which is going to be untouched by the scouting of clubs and South Africa almost being a good sports market for players. I know that from my former times. Even you might not remember but I was signing Knowledge Musona from Kaizer Cheifs in 2011," Tanner said.

Makhanya and Mailula have now joined compatriots in the USA – forward Bongokuhle Hlongwane signed for Minnesota United in 2021, while utility player Njabulo Blom was scooped up by St Louis City in January.

Tanner argues this number has the potential to grow.

"South Africa is, there's a lot of interest in our sport and I think that the football is also growing and getting better and better. It's an interesting market definitely and I think MLS is also an interesting league for players from South Africa," he added.

"This is reflected by the players who are doing a really good job and we are talking about Hlongwane, we are talking about Blom. These are all players who are already making an impact and that grows interest from our community."