Why TS Galaxy sold Samukele Kabini to Norwegian giants

Chairman Tim Sukazi accompanied the 21-year-old centreback to Norway this week to conclude the deal and Bašić revealed that there had been other suitors.

“Molde had been tracking the player for the last few months and everything happened very quickly in the last month. Honestly, there were several European clubs interested in the player,” explained Bašić.

“The club president Tim Sukazi handled the entire transfer very well and wisely. I believe that the maximum was achieved for the club but, most importantly, for our player. Money is not the only factor that dictates the decision – of course, it is important but it is crucial that our players take the right step forward in their careers. We want to show that we are the right choice for all young players in Africa.”

Kabini has now moved to a league considered one of the best stepping stones for a potential transfer to the English Premier League, Spanish La Liga and German Bundesliga to name a few.

Bašić is adamant Galaxy – and Kabini – made the right “choice”.

“Norway is a fantastic country and for the next step Kabini made an ideal choice. I believe this is an excellent start for him. It is important that he integrates well and adapts to the new culture and climate. I am sure he will succeed as he possesses an excellent work ethic and character.”

The Galaxy technical director is confident that more transfers of this nature will follow, indicating the club’s model to groom top talent and flourish at another level.

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“Our goal for the future is to make major transfers to Europe but also in the domestic market – years of dedicated work have built a healthy system and a clear vision and we are now focused on establishing the technical and professional side to align with the requirements of the best clubs in Europe and South Africa,” said Bašić.