Mcelwa Nchabeleng

Mcelwa Nchabeleng

Platinum Stars have entered the race for the signature of controversial Mamelodi Sundowns defender Mbulelo "OJ" Mabizela.

Bloemfontein Celtic are also courting Mabizela, who was put on the transfer list by the gatvol Downs management after he went AWOL for the umpteenth time after the festive recess.

George Khunou, The Tycoons' chairman, confirmed to Sowetan yesterday they had already opened talks with the talented but burdensome defender.

"We have spoken to him and he is keen to join us," said Khunou yesterday. "I have asked my team management to start discussions with his agent and we will also engage Sundowns because the player is still contracted to the team.

"We have a team that will able to manage OJ. He is too good to be ignored in spite of his off-the-pitch behaviour."

Mabizela's contract at Sundowns expires on June 30 this year.

Francesco Ferreira of Prosport International, the company that manages Mabizela, yesterday confirmed Celtic's interest in the former Bafana Bafana defender.

Stars recently signed former problematic player Jabu Mahlangu, who has behaved well so far at the team.

Mahlangu marked his debut for Stars with a virtuoso performance when he created the first goal and netted the second in their 2-all draw against Celtic last Saturday.