Baroka FC make an audacious bid for Steven Pienaar

Upstarts Baroka FC lived up to their reputation of punching above their weight when the Premier Soccer League (PSL) newcomers made an audacious bid to snatch former Everton star Steven Pienaar.

Pienaar’s second spell at the English Premier League side came to an end last month and he has been linked with several clubs in South Africa and in the cash-rich Chinese Super League.

Pienaar was the guest of honour at the announcement of Baroka's sponsorship extension with Clover in Johannesburg on Monday and club chairman Khurishi Mphahlele used the opportunity to plead with the revered dribbling wizard to join the Limpopo-based side as they prepare to make their debut in the domestic top-flight.

"Money's not an issue‚ come join us‚" Mphahlele said to Pienaar.

"You'll be making a contribution to the country. People will know that you did not go for money.

"Please make up your mind and come join us. You need us as much as we need you."

Pienaar has not made a decision on his next move‚ but it is believed he will make his final decision in the coming weeks.

The well-travelled Pienaar – who has also played for Tottenham Hotspur‚ Borussia Dortmund and Ajax Amsterdam – has been linked with a move to recently crowned PSL champions Mamelodi Sundowns‚ Kaizer Chiefs‚ Orlando Pirates and Ajax Cape Town.

The upstart newcomers developed a healthy appetite for upsetting more esteemed top-flight opposition in cup competitions when they were still campaigning in the lower tier and it is no surprise that they now want to pull the rug from under their more illustrious counterparts' feet.

The club has had Clover as their sponsor since 2013 and on Monday confirmed that they have signed an extension for the next three years with the option of extending it further.

Baroka will travel to Zimbabwe for two weeks as part of their pre-season training.